The end of the stainless pipe didn't feel smooth, so I used some 120W&D to smooth off the surface for improved sealing. This is not easy to get at.
The hose and fittings came from Demon Tweeks. Unfortunately the (Samco) silicon hose comes in Metre lengths. There are a range of colours, but I chose classic black.
I used masking tape to mark off a length of just over 100mm, and cut with the Stanley Knife.
The clips are ABA stainless(made in Sweden - really).....they have a flat stainless band which bears onto the hose for optimum pressure. Size 32-44mm.
Up to this point, all had gone smoothly. I refitted the hose & new clamps, refilled the coolant, and packed away. Then I checked underneath.................
It was dripping.
And then it got difficult. First a repeat of "drain - remove etc etc". So I tried some silicon sealer. Replaced everything again.
Then I checked underneath.................
It was dripping.
Clearly the stainless pipe was compromised in some way. So it had to come off. This was easier than I expected, it's a bit like a puzzle, but eventually it came out.
This is the end of the pipe after more use of W&D to smooth out a number of grooves which ran lengthwise. You can also see here that the bend has flattened the profile, so the stainless clip must be fitted as close as possible to the lip, which is the most circular part of the pipe.
I ended up using some PTFE plumbing sealer tape over the lip and the first few mm of the pipe. I was able to relocate the worm drive of the top clip on the side away from the drive belt - so much better clearance.
I didn't lose too much coolant on the first attempt, but the second & third attempts caused more loss.
Here's a reminder about the antifreeze I use.
More to follow>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
