Hi all,

For a few months I have had to refill my overflow every 2-3 days. I have switched out hoses etc, but just noticed that the pipe connected to
The lower radiator hose is severely rusted and dripping coolant. (Pic attached).
Is this something I can fix myself or should I be taking it to a garage? The car is 03 with 230,000, but it runs fine other than the constant refilling. I have fixed the 20-30 other issues with the car, but this might be beyond both my skill set and toolkit

Any input appreciated!

 

Should be an easy fix. I believe it's Ford part number F68A-8274-BA (Lower Radiator Hose To Water Pump Connector). Ford pricing is $44. Don't forget the "O" Ring for where it enters the block which is about $13 from Ford (Quality and correct size). The pipe has a single bolt that holds it in place. Remove the old one, clean the mating surface area real good. I like to apply electrical grease to the "O" rings so that they seat easier without getting boogered up. Pop the new "O" Ring onto the new pipe and install. At this point, I would do a completed coolant flush and then refill with your favorate flavor of antifreeze.

 

Wow. Thanks for the detailed response!
Glad the fix seems straight forward and within my ability level. Thanks again for taking the time!!

 

No problem...That's what we're all here for, to help each other.

 

Hi again! Just a quickie... This is the only pipe I could find matching the part number you provided,

8290 Pipe - Radiator Upper **8Z-8290-BA F68A-8274-BA
3.8L 6 Cyl Radiator & Grill - Cooling system, fan & related parts - 6 cyl. 3.0L & 3.8L - 1997 Ford Windstar - 1948480

but it specifies 'Upper Radiator'. Can I assume this is not the part? Also, how do I know the correct size of 'O' Ring, thanks in advance.

 

Go to Official Ford Parts Site | Buy Motorcraft & OEM Ford Parts Online | FordParts.com (Official Ford parts site) and put your VIN number in. Then look for your part. It's the same part that my Freestar takes. There is no steel upper radiator hose. You can also go to your local Ford dealership and have the parts person pull up the picture of the part you need along with the part number. As far as the O-Ring goes, I would spend the $13 and get the OEM part. The last thing you want is for a generic O-Ring to blow out on you when you're in the middle of nowhere.

Here's another web site that lists the part correctly.

Sarad Automotive Parts

 

Thanks for the reply... And again taking the time. Now to fixing the leak.

 

No problem. A cool engine is a happy engine...