The internal-combustion engine has been around for more than 100 years. In that time, we haven't progressed much when it comes to coolant systems and hoses. We were using rubber hoses 100 years ago when Henry Ford founded Ford Motor Company, and we're still using them today. Owners have certainly found at least one upgrade to the dilemma of coolant containment in the Cool-Flex cooling-system hose from Inglese Cool-Flex.
This is the Inglese Cool-Flex...
This is the Inglese Cool-Flex Fluid Transfer Hose that bends to just about any position. Each end of the hose fits into attachment hoses that are held in place with worm-gear clamps. The clamps are hidden with covers to make the installation look high-tech. These hoses and covers are available in a variety of colors.
You can even replace your...
You can even replace your engine's heater hoses with Cool-Flex. Depending on the installation, you can use Cool-Flex as the bypass hose.
The rubber radiator hose on...
The rubber radiator hose on this '68 Mustang is surely black and nondescript. You can brighten up your Ford's engine compartment with Cool-Flex.
The Inglese Cool-Flex radiator hose isn't really a hose at all. It's a flexible, corrugated copper tube that does a better job of keeping coolant where it belongs. It flexes with the engine's movement, yet looks terrific. It will bend to just about any position and application. It won't collapse and is not adversely affected by vibration or extreme changes in temperature. And the Cool-Flex hoses will outlast your Mustang's engine.
The correct name for this tube is the Cool-Flex Fluid Transfer Hose, and we're going to show you how to install it.
Drain the cooling system into...
Drain the cooling system into a clean container, then remove the hoses. This would also be a good time to replace the thermostat, if needed.
Measure the original hose...
Measure the original hose and mark it to cut the Cool-Flex hose to the correct size.
Cut the hose with a fine-tooth...
Cut the hose with a fine-tooth hacksaw. Remember that the Cool-Flex has hose ends, which add length. Make sure you measure the total length, including the hose ends.
The hose ends (also called...
The hose ends (also called reducers) are fitted together and sized as shown. The Cool-Flex hose will fit inside the hose ends.
Sometimes, it's easier to...
Sometimes, it's easier to fit the hose end(s) on the neck first, then fit the Cool-Flex hose inside the ends. In this case, we need two hose ends to get the sizing correct at the radiator.
Same thing at the thermostat...
Same thing at the thermostat housing: one or two hose ends, depending on size.
The worm-gear clamps are fitted...
The worm-gear clamps are fitted into the hose-end cover like this. You can do this on the installed hose ends, or you can do it like Laurie Slawson is doing here.
Hose-end covers and clamps...
Hose-end covers and clamps fit over the hose ends like this.
This is what your hose ends...
This is what your hose ends and covers should look like.
Hose ends and covers install...
Hose ends and covers install like this. Then, the Cool-Flex hose fits into the hose ends.
Tighten the clamps as shown....
Tighten the clamps as shown. Do not over-tighten.
Cool-Flex hoses look sharp...
Cool-Flex hoses look sharp and will outlast your engine. They offer flexibility, good looks, and longevity.