DIY: Radiator Overflow Line Modification

Discussion in 'How-To/Tech Database' started by Kevan, Jan 30, 2008.

  1. Kevan

    Kevan SRT-10 Owner

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    RADIATOR OVERFLOW LINE MODIFICATION

    This one is quick, cheap, simple, and best of all- it looks good! :)

    If you'll notice, the overflow line on your engine has a big ol' loop at the cap-side of the radiator. That's nice and all, but it does look kinda....amateur, or afterthought-ish.
    If you have an aftermarket CAI on there, it looks even worse.

    When I got my CAI from JMB, he included a plastic elbow so owners could trim some of that excess tubing away and make it a cleaner looking setup.

    I went a step further. :)

    PARTS
    At NAPA I purchsed an piece of 90 deg. elbow tubing! That, along with a small straight barb joiner (less than $10 total) and we have all the parts necessary.
    I believe the size was 3/8" I.D. for the tubing. Someone check on that for me.

    I first trimmed the elbow as small as it could go and still retain decent flow. It needs to be slightly longer than the outlet pipe of the radiator.
    Then I measured the side I had just cut and trimmed the other end to match.
    I inserted the barb joiner into the open end of the elbow. This gave me the exact spot where to cut the original overflow tubing.
    Trim original tubing. Insert into available end of barb joiner.
    DONE.

    MAINTENANCE
    Check the elbow, barb joiner, and overflow tube everytime you pop your hood. Takes 10 seconds to inspect.
    It should last the life of your truck, but replace worn parts as necessary.

    Here's what the final modification looks like:
     

    Attached Files:

    Last edited: Oct 28, 2008
  2. 1bad4dr

    1bad4dr Mr. Meany

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    Damn Kevan, you have been busy. lol

    Wanna a Moderator job?
     
  3. Kevan

    Kevan SRT-10 Owner

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    The pay isn't good enough. :D

    No- not even with an autographed pair of your socks thrown in.
    LOL