Topic: Upper Radiator Hose for the 403 Olds Motor

[Airforrest]

I am restoring a 79' T/A with the 403 engine. I'm having a small issue with the Upper Radiator Hose. The one I got from NAPA has the proper shape, but the end that connects to the Radiator fits too loosely. The upper Radiator Flange measures 1-1/4"o.d. The Hose has i.d. of 1-1/2" on both ends. The side that goes to the Thermostat Housing fits fine. Is there a Hose available with one end 1-1/2", and the other 1-1/4", or do I just have the wrong Radiator ??

[Wallington]

It's a 1.5" hose. Shoot a pic.

[Transatrom]

So, i'm not an expert on radiators however I happen to have my radiator out for a full frame off restoration and thought I would help.  I measured both fittings to eliminate confusion as well.  i purchased my car in California with 62K and it shows no signs of ever having been repaired.  It's equipped with an Olds 403 with air conditioning.  It is a Van Nuys manufactured car, in very good condition, so my assumption is the radiator is the original.

The bottom fitting measures 1.56 and the top fitting measures 1.27.  The top is distinctly smaller.  The lip on the bottom fitting measures 1.65 and 1.3 on the top fitting.

AutoZone confirms:  http://www.autozone.com/cooling-heating-and-climate-control/hose-upper/dayco-hose-upper-/pontiac/trans-am/1978/8-cylinders-z-6-6l-4bl/114968_0_10495/
Hose End (1) Inside Diameter (in):   1.5
Hose End (2) Inside Diameter (in):   1.5
Hose End 1 Outside Diameter (in):   1.75
Hose End 2 Outside Diameter (in):   1.75

[Transatrom]

To add a visual, I pulled this photo from Facebook (Second Gen Graveyard) @ https://www.facebook.com/groups/239887492873769/489064047956111/?notif_t=group_activity&notif_id=1461852092552711

[Airforrest]

Thanks for that info! The radiator that came with my 79' im assuming is original. I ended up buying the new upper Hose that is the same size from all suppiers... 1-1/2" on both ends. The I bought a smaller hose that fits over the smaller upper radiator outlet 1-1'4" dia., cut a piece the length of the outlet, then slid my new 1-1/2" dia. Hose over that, and clamped it. Should be fine. Not ready to spring for a new radiator just for that reason. Other than that small issue, it fits everywhere else just like it should :-)

[Airforrest]

BTW........The pic you posted looks exactly like mine. Thanks again ! FS