Installing metal surge tank

[Scott Harris]

I am installing the metal surge tank on my 1999 Patriot.  The new tank came with a couple of metal threaded plugs plus the small one that came off the old tank. Should I use teflon tape when installing the plugs, or pipe dope, or just dry.  Also, should I use a little silicon lube on the hose ends or just dry?

Thanks,
Scott Harris

[Scott Harris]

I called BCS and Ken recommended using pipe dope.

I went to put the hoses back on the new tank.  The large hose slid right on but the two small hoses are putting up quite a fight. I could only get them past the first of three bumps.  I tried lubricating with some of the coolant but that didn’t help.  Is there some mechanic’s trick or special tool to use to coax the hoses back on?

Thanks,
Scott Harris

[Joel Ashley]

Try gently warming the cantankerous hose ends to see if they’ll soften enough to flex more.  A hairdryer may be adequate.  I haven’t had to do that with automotive hoses, which can be reinforced inside, but it usually works for repairing garden ones.

Joel

[Steve Huber]

Also try applying a bit of Vaseline with a qtip to inside f the hose.

[Keith Moffett Co-Admin]

Scott
Hoses get old and hard.  If yours are still flexible but still tough to put on use both heat and a bit of lube.  I recall ours were tough to get on the new tank.

[john brunson]

had the same problem..... old hose was brittle....bought the new silicon hose and replaced the hose also.

[Frank Bergamo]

Scott, I would change all the hoses that you can access, to silicone hose. You will have to drain coolant down about 4 or 5 gallons to change lower hose. Cheap insurance to save you trouble down the road. Hope this helps.