Leak in Hose Below Thermostat--Help

[Jake1]

Got a 97 SOHC 6cy and I finally found the small leak...a pin hole leak in the small hose that connects to the bottom of the plastic thermostat housing. This hose is only about 2 or 3 inches long...and is buried in there. I haven't seen any post on this about this hose...nor can I find it on any of the Ford parts sites. I had the thermostat and housing replaced by my mechanic at great expense a few years ago...so that should be fine...it's just this small hose. Anyone know anything about it? I guess it goes down into the water pump...? I will go to the dealer tomorrow to look at their schematics to see if they have it.

 

[magngineer]

Sounds like the "bypass" hose. My 98 5.0 has one from the t-stat housing to the water pump as you describe. Just replaced it 2 days ago. Auto Zone had them in "cut to fit" form.

 

[Jake1]

Thanks...I know that the OHC and the SOHC 4.0 are different and there are some photos of the OH, but I can't seem to find and photos (or diagrams) of the SOHC. Autozone and the Motorcraft parts site don't even list it or show it...so it's been hard to identify. Sounds like I need a trip to the Ford dealer to look at their diagram...just to make sure.

 

[marragtop]

You might consider buying it from the dealer if it is 'pre formed'. Buying a regular piece of hose and bending it and installing it in tight quarters can be a pita.

 

[InnerLimits]

What does pita mean?

 

[Stick4503]

Pain In The A--Well, Your Back Side

I replaced this hose on a 98 SOHC awhile back. If i remember correctly its just a regular hose. I disconnected the thermostat housing, placed hose in position on the pump connection first then slid housing back in place lining everything up, reconnect housing then the upper hose clamp. Just make sure all gaskets and rings from housing get lined up and don't break the plastic housing it is very expensive for what it is. Over a $100 for that thing.