After 125K, I think I'm going to change my Radiator hoses as part of my preventative measure deal.


Is there is difference between Samco Radiator Hoses vs OEM hoses? I don't mind the $$$, but I just need to know it does better somehow..

Thanks in advance.

BC

 

I believe the silicone based rubber in Samco hoses resists deterioration better than natural rubber. Silicone rubber offers higher operating temps and pressures than most natural rubbers - and silicone hoses shine up much nicer.
I'll be switching mine out with Samco hoses when I return from the Middle East (after 33 months).

 

Speaking of the oem hoses, what lube should you use to keep them in top shape? (flexible/clean/etc.) Does that shin-etsu grease work?

 

Not really. Frankly speaking, most silicone protectants are not good for natural rubber. It works well for modern weather strip materials, but not for natural rubber or in high temp applications.
The best product I know of for natural and artificial rubber, plastic and leather products is 303 aerospace protectant. A friend of mine has used it for years in his Mooney aircraft - and the interior still looks fantastic. Aircraft interiors are exposed to several times the level of UV radiation that automobiles are exposed to. An aerospace protectant that works well for an aircraft - works wonders in an earthbound vehicle.
http://www.303products.com/tech/index.cfm?...&category_id=70

Additionally, the problem with most natural rubber hoses is not deterioration from the outside - they rot from the inside out. Silicone based rubber hoses don't suffer this fate.

 

Considering OEM hoses are ~ $60 new I'd go SAMCO for a few more $$

 

http://www.gates.com/part_locator/in...cation_id=3002

 

slipstream444, thanks for the details. Looks like it is not just another JDM pixie dust product for once.

 

Pixie dust

 

samco would be a good choice.

 

No problem Rick.
Here's another tidbit about silicon hoses (from work) - silicone rubber hoses are used in turbine powered aircraft in a number of high temp/pressure applications. Typical applications involve bleed air and oil systems.
Silicone hoses are used to join bleed air lines at flex points and to join engine bleed air with different aircraft systems (such as the pressurization system). Bleed air temps can reach several hundred degrees C, but the silicone rubber hoses are extremely reliable and last quite a long time - under very extreme conditions.