Spring-less lower radiator-to-waterpump hose?

[ds53652]

Hi everyone,

2002 TJ w/ 4.0L. I'm replacing my waterpump, thermostat, fan clutch, all hoses, etc. I noticed that the old lower coolant hose that goes from the bottom of the radiator to the waterpump has a spring in it. I assume this is to keep it from collapsing. The new one that I got does NOT have a spring in it. Is this a problem? Should I try and find/get one that has a spring in it?

Thanks in advance, Roger

 

[TJ4Jim]

The original hoses came with the spring but since then as always technology changes and new hoses do not require them but there is no reason not to swap it over if you want.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

X2, newer hose material formulations have made the rust-prone spring no longer needed.

 

[ds53652]

Thank you both, very much appreciated!

 

[Blondie70]

I sure kept mine...just stuck it right in the new hose....not a problem.

 

[rouxbicon]

I never fully understood the purpose of the springs anyway...? Anyone know why they were thought to be needed previously?

 

[Blackjack]

I never fully understood the purpose of the springs anyway...? Anyone know why they were thought to be needed previously?

To prevent the hose from collapsing from the water pump suction.

 

[Goatman]

Happened a lot in the 'before days' if the spring rusted or was omitted. Amazing to watch the whole thing get sucked down tight every time the engine revs, and then pops back round again when it goes back to an idle.

 

[TheBoogieman]

Those old, rusty, hose springs made great toys for your cat to play with.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

Happened a lot in the 'before days' if the spring rusted or was omitted. Amazing to watch the whole thing get sucked down tight every time the engine revs, and then pops back round again when it goes back to an idle.

I remember those days but it has been a long time.

 

[toximus]

X2, newer hose material formulations have made the rust-prone spring no longer needed.

What is this different hose formulation? The old original hose from 2004 (which came with a spring) feels and looks visually identical to a brand new MOPAR hose.

Also, if your spring is rusty it's likely indicative of a larger rust issue since nearly everything else in the engine is made from steel. Flush and then make sure your coolant is mixed properly.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

What is this different hose formulation? The old original hose from 2004 (which came with a spring) feels and looks visually identical to a brand new MOPAR hose.

I dunno, ask the hose manufacturers. It was a Gates rep who told me they no longer need springs to keep the hose from collapsing due to better rubber formulations.

 

[toximus]

I dunno, ask the hose manufacturers. It was a Gates rep who told me they no longer need springs to keep the hose from collapsing due to better rubber formulations.

Was this said specific to the TJ or across the automotive industry?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

Was this said specific to the TJ or across the automotive industry?

I never mentioned it was for my TJ, I just called their tech line to ask why I wasn't finding hoses with springs in them.

 

[rasband]

Glad it sounds like the spring isn't necessary, since I just did this and didn't move it over. I'm auto swapping in a week and a half anyway though. So I'll add it for peace of mind.

 

[txbemis69]

just replaced my original radiator and hoses on my 06 and there was no spring.