Heater hoses.

[Phil W]

The engines out of my '74 2 +2 130/5 for another gearbox rebuild (2nd in 10 years). I noticed heater hoses fairly well perished and have got a replacement from Paul Matty. Unfortunately they only have shorter one that goes from thermostat housing to heater. This looks much better than the thin walled stuff I got previously via Christopher Neils.

Has anyone got a reference for the type of hose that should be used i.e wall thickness, chemical resistance?

Thanks

Phil

[iain.hamlton]

Phil.

I don't know what spec is right for the job. I think you get what you pay for. In fact, I'd be surprised if Lotus were too fussy about component quality when our cars were built. Motor factors often keep heater hose in bulk, and it seems OK. None of the hoses on my +2 don't seem as good as, say, on a modern VW. I hear the racing fraternity favour silicone hoses. Try: https://www.burtonpower.com/Default.aspx

One other thing about the straight hose: as i remember, it is smaller at the engine end. 5/8" at the heater and 1/2" at the engine, I think. It will work with a bit of bulk 5/8" hose if you are careful about tightening the jubilee clip at the front end. Not right though. Suggest you measure up the job, and talk to Burtons or http://www.nfauto.co.uk/gates.htm about reducer etc.

When I did the job a couple of years ago, Paul Matty's had the right part.

best regards, iain

[Phil W]

Thanks Iain
Got shorter hose from PM but they don't have any of the longer ones and don't expect to get anymore. It looks pretty impressive. Managed to find similar from Demon Tweeks.

Gearbox ready for collection pm from Alan Shone. Mainshaft bearing collapsed.

See if I can remember how it all goes back together now................

[cliveyboy]

Does this mean the Plus 2 heater hose is completely different to the Elans.
I just replaced all my Sprint heater hoses with 1/2" bore silicon tubing.

Clive

[john.p.clegg]

Clive
Sorry to hi-jack the thread but have you come across a silicon hose replacement for the bottom radiator hose that doesn't look like a black pudding but with just two 90 degree angles?

John

[iain.hamlton]

Does this mean the Plus 2 heater hose is completely different to the Elans.
I just replaced all my Sprint heater hoses with 1/2" bore silicon tubing.

Clive

Clive, i think you are right. Among the differences are the position and size of the connector tubes. +2s have different size each end and a very tight bend for the hose going to the head.

best regards, iain