🔧 Radiator Hose - Replacement

This guide covers replacing the radiator hose on your Ram. Because “radiator hose” can mean the upper or lower hose, I’m using the most common service path: the upper hose. The lower hose is similar, but clamp access and routing can differ slightly.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Never open the cooling system when the engine is hot. Pressurized coolant can cause serious burns.
• Let the engine cool completely before starting.
• Keep coolant away from pets and children. It is poisonous.
• If your truck has an electric fan, keep hands clear when the key is on.
• Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Flathead screwdriver
• 7mm socket
• Ratchet
• Drain pan
• Pliers
• Hose pick
• Funnel
• Torque wrench
• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Radiator hose - Qty: 1
• Hose clamps - Qty: 2
• Engine coolant - Qty: 1-2 gallons

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool fully.
• Place a drain pan under the radiator area.
• Open the coolant reservoir cap only when the engine is cold.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Drain enough coolant

• Use a drain pan under the radiator.
• Open the radiator drain if accessible, or carefully loosen the lower hose clamp with pliers and let coolant drain into the pan.
• Drain only enough coolant to get the hose below the coolant level.

Step 2: Remove the old hose

• Use a flathead screwdriver or 7mm socket, depending on the clamp style, to loosen both hose clamps.
• Twist the hose gently to break it free.
• Use a hose pick if the hose is stuck to the neck.
• Twist first, pull second.

Step 3: Inspect the fittings

• Check the radiator neck and engine pipe for cracks, rust, or heavy buildup.
• Clean the sealing surfaces with a clean rag.
• If the neck is damaged, replace that part before installing the new hose.

Step 4: Install the new hose

• Slide the new clamps onto the hose first.
• Install the new hose fully onto both ends.
• Position the clamps just behind the raised bead on each fitting.
• Use a flathead screwdriver or 7mm socket to tighten the clamps snugly.
• Torque to snug only if using worm-gear clamps; do not overtighten.

Step 5: Refill the cooling system

• Use a funnel to refill with the correct coolant mix.
• Fill the reservoir to the proper mark.
• Leave the cap off for initial bleeding if needed.

Step 6: Bleed air from the system

• Start the engine and let it idle with the heater set to full hot.
• Watch the coolant level and top off as air escapes.
• When the engine reaches operating temperature, install the cap.
• Check for leaks at both hose ends.

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✅ After Repair

• Road test the truck and watch the temperature gauge.
• Recheck coolant level after the engine cools again.
• Inspect both hose ends for seepage.
• If the heater output is weak or the temp rises, re-bleed the system.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $180-$420 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $35-$95 (parts only)

You Save: $145-$325 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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