🔧 Radiator Hose - Replacement

This job replaces the coolant hose that connects the radiator to the engine cooling system. On your Sierra, the exact steps are very similar for the upper and lower radiator hoses, but the hose location changes the access point and clamp position.

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

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the engine go fully cold before opening the cooling system. Hot coolant can spray under pressure and cause burns.
• Keep hands and tools away from the electric radiator fan. It can start unexpectedly.
• Use proper jack stands if you need access from underneath. Never work under a truck supported only by a jack.
• Have a drain pan ready. Coolant is toxic to people and pets.
• No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Flat-blade screwdriver
• Hose clamp pliers (specialty)
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• 10mm socket
• Ratchet
• Extension bar
• Shop towels
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Jack stands
• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)

---

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Radiator hose - Qty: 1
• Radiator hose clamps - Qty: 2
• Dex-Cool coolant - Qty: 1-2 gallons as needed

---

📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Let the engine cool completely.
• Open the hood and remove the coolant reservoir cap only after the engine is cold.
• If your truck has a skid plate blocking access, remove it first.
• Keep the new hose next to the old one.

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Drain some coolant

• Place a drain pan under the radiator.
• Open the radiator drain cock if equipped, or disconnect the lower hose carefully to lower the coolant level below the hose you are replacing.
• Drain only enough coolant so the hose ends are not flooded when removed.

Step 2: Remove any access parts

• Use a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove any intake ducting, engine cover, or splash shield that blocks the hose.
• If needed, use an extension bar for reach.

Step 3: Release the hose clamps

• Use hose clamp pliers or a flat-blade screwdriver to release the spring clamps or loosen the worm clamps.
• Slide the clamps back on the hose, away from the fittings.

Step 4: Remove the old hose

• Twist the hose gently to break it free, then pull it off the radiator neck and engine fitting.
• If it is stuck, use a flat-blade screwdriver very carefully to lift the hose edge. Do not scratch the plastic or aluminum necks.
• Twist first, pull second.

Step 5: Install the new hose

• Compare the new hose to the old one for length and bend shape.
• Push the hose fully onto both fittings until it seats against the stop.
• Move the clamps into the same position as the originals, just behind the bead on each fitting.

Step 6: Secure the clamps

• Use hose clamp pliers to reposition spring clamps, or a flat-blade screwdriver to tighten worm clamps until snug.
• Do not overtighten worm clamps. Tight enough to seal is enough.

Step 7: Reinstall removed parts

• Reinstall any intake ducting, covers, or shields with the 10mm socket and ratchet.
• Make sure nothing rubs the hose or blocks the fan.

Step 8: Refill and bleed the cooling system

• Use a funnel to refill with the correct Dex-Cool coolant.
• Fill the reservoir to the proper mark.
• Start the engine and let it idle with the heater on hot.
• Watch the coolant level and add as needed as air leaves the system.
• Install the cap once the level stabilizes and no more air bubbles appear.

---

✅ After Repair

• Check the hose connections for leaks while the engine idles.
• Bring the engine up to operating temperature and verify the heater blows hot air.
• After a short test drive, let the engine cool and recheck coolant level.
• Inspect again the next day for any seepage at the clamps.

---

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

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

DIY Cost: $35-$110 (parts only)

You Save: $145-$310 by doing it yourself!

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

---

🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.