When I last replaced the hose that goes from the engine to the block heater (driver's side) I had a hell of a time getting the hose off of the heater core's pipe. Despite my best efforts to avoid it, I wound up crushing the pipe a little bit. Not massively, but it's deformed enough that coolant now slowly leaks from around the hose.

What are my options for reshaping that pipe so that I can at least get it a little more round than it is now and hopefully end that stupid leak?

 

There's not a lot you can do. The best bet would be to use a small expander (much like is used to create the flares for exhaust systems). Plumbing stores should be able to provide you with something that will work.

Also, two hose clamps to clamp the hose down, and tighten them VERY snugly.

To avoid this problem in the future, simply cut the old hose off.

 

you speak of a block heater. My car doesn't have one and today it was 2 degrees outside (before windchill). I was wondering if you have a part number or know of where I could get one.

I have an 86 GTU.

 

Sounds like he's referring to the heater core for the cabin heater. Not a block heater.

 

theyre Cheap, just pick one up used in the second gen section, i have a parts car going to the scrap yard tommatoe, if itz still home when i get home ill yank it off 4 ya

 

86 gtu?????

 

^-- Id guess it's actually a sport or a base.

 

the gtu is the sport version of the gxl. at least for this year. from what i read dif suspension and a few more HP, i think.

 

You can use a deep well socket to carefully work into the heater core outlet. Work a socket into the fitting that's just a bit smaller than the ID and then you can use a pair of pliers to carefully form the fitting around the socket to get out any kinks. Care is the word of the day. If you're not concerned about easy removal of the hose any time soon a bead of silicone around a dry hose and fitting will seal the connection quite well.

 

Yes, but to quote someone in another thread, "Mazda started with the heater core and built the rest of the car around it."

Replacing the heater core involves pretty much entirely dismantling the dashboard & associated parts.

-=Russ=-

 

It is a PITA and you'll break most of the plastic parts if you are not careful.

 

If you are wanting some sort of "winter" car starter helper, get a engine Oil pan heater, the Mazda Dealer ship hear puts them onto every RX-8 that goes through new or used. I think it helps more than an block heater cause it warms your oil no tyour antifreeze and your eninge has to start moving through the oil before the antifreeze so it helps alot, also on desils it works really good, just a little heater you plug in and works great. very good investment even if you are just trying to start it in the winter, not drive it.


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