On the topic of hoses.
Gas lines:
Any of the new lined hose that is (R7 or better) EPA compliant seems to outlast
the 5 year time frame as a fuel line. So far at 7 years, with AvGas, my hoses
are in superb shape still. Those using auto fuel with ethanol seem to also
hold up well. And these lined hoses don't stick up the plane. See the hose
manufacturers
recommended clamps.
As far as coolant hoses:
Silicone coolant hoses seem to hold up fantastic. I would consider going no
longer
than 10 years with silicone personally. The failure areas of the silicone
hoses seem to be the clamping area as they are not as tough without an exterior
liner. Do your research.
The hose clamp area and the type of clamp is always a concern especially with
silicone
coolant hose. HPS makes a nice lined hose, but find a 17mm hose size.
A Breeze clamp over tight tears through the hose as the thread cuts in the clamp
will tear up hose as will cheap thin clamps. Lined hose clamps are always
better. These type clamps are still a pain to get off, but they seal better
and they help the hose last. Spring clamps on the coolant hoses when properly
sized and fit hold up well with the silicone hoses. Be careful to use the
properly
sized clamps.
Note the rubber coolant hoses hold up well on the top of the engine. The lower
hoses when exposed to reflective heat near the exhaust tend to show heat damage
and brittleness if exposed to the exhaust heat. I'm a fan of using heat
reflective
sleeve over all the hoses on the bottom of the engine.
Oil Lines:
Pay particular attention to the oil line on the bottom banjo bolt as it can get
quite hot and I've seen them get brittle and crumble in only a few years (3 to
be exact). With heat sleeving completely covering the oil line and clamp, they
last a bit longer but bear watching. Do your research on hoses of choice.
Remember, barbed connectors tend to damage the liners of hoses, so if removing
a hose that is lined or silicone coolant hoses to facilitate other maintenance,
inspect them well for damage after removal. If they are damaged, of course,
replace them.
Just my thoughts.
Bud Yerly
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