Radiator Hose - Lower

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the lower radiator hose on the 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 Coyote engine, including coolant drainage and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if reusing damaged clamps) × 2 — Worm-gear style 44-64mm

Fluids

• Motorcraft Orange Coolant — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock location
4. Remove engine cover by lifting upward - it is held by grommets only
5. Locate the lower radiator hose which runs from the bottom driver side of the radiator to the water pump inlet on the engine

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to release any residual pressure, then remove completely. Locate the radiator drain petcock on the lower driver side tank of the radiator. Turn counterclockwise to open and drain coolant into the drain pan. Allow to drain completely for at least 10 minutes.
2. 2

   Access lower radiator hose at radiator end
   The lower radiator hose connects to the bottom of the radiator on the driver side. You may need to reach from above or below depending on your access preference. Identify the hose clamp securing the hose to the radiator outlet.
3. 3

   Remove radiator end hose clamp
   Using a flat blade screwdriver or hose clamp pliers, loosen the worm-gear hose clamp at the radiator connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the radiator outlet at least 2 inches to provide clearance for hose removal.
4. 4

   Disconnect hose from radiator
   Twist the hose gently back and forth while pulling to break the seal between the hose and radiator outlet. Pull the hose straight off the radiator outlet. Allow any remaining coolant to drain into the pan. Inspect the radiator outlet for damage or corrosion.
5. 5

   Access water pump end of hose
   Follow the lower radiator hose to where it connects to the water pump inlet on the driver side front of the engine block. This connection is best accessed from below the vehicle or through the wheel well area.
6. 6

   Remove water pump end hose clamp
   Loosen the worm-gear hose clamp at the water pump inlet connection using a flat blade screwdriver or hose clamp pliers. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the water pump at least 2 inches.
7. 7

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Twist the hose back and forth while pulling to break the seal at the water pump inlet. Remove the hose completely from the vehicle. Inspect both connection points for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the radiator outlet and water pump inlet with a shop towel if necessary.
8. 8

   Install new lower radiator hose at water pump
   Position a new hose clamp on the water pump end of the new lower radiator hose with the screw mechanism accessible. Slide the hose onto the water pump inlet, ensuring it is fully seated against the stop ridge. The hose should slide on 1.5 to 2 inches. Position the clamp 0.5 inch from the end of the hose, centered over the inlet connection.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Secure water pump end clamp
   Tighten the hose clamp to 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft) using a torque wrench with appropriate bit attachment. Do not overtighten as this can damage the hose or cause leaks.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install radiator end of hose
    Route the hose to the radiator outlet, ensuring it follows the original path without kinks or sharp bends. Position a new hose clamp on the radiator end of the hose. Slide the hose onto the radiator outlet until fully seated. Position the clamp 0.5 inch from the end of the hose, centered over the outlet connection.
    Torque spec

    Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Secure radiator end clamp
    Tighten the hose clamp to 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft) using a torque wrench. Verify both hose connections are fully seated and clamps are positioned correctly.
    Torque spec

    Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Close radiator drain and refill system
    Close the radiator drain petcock by turning clockwise until snug. Using a funnel, slowly pour Motorcraft Orange coolant into the radiator until it reaches the base of the filler neck. Pour slowly to allow air to escape. Fill the coolant recovery reservoir to the COLD FULL mark.
13. 13

    Burp cooling system
    With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the heater to maximum temperature and fan speed. As the engine warms, the thermostat will open and coolant level will drop. Continue adding coolant to maintain level at the base of the filler neck. Run until the cooling fans cycle on, indicating the system has reached operating temperature. Watch for air bubbles to cease.
14. 14

    Final fill and cap installation
    With engine at operating temperature and coolant level stabilized, top off the radiator to the base of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap by aligning the tabs and turning clockwise until it clicks into the locked position. Check the coolant recovery reservoir level and adjust to the HOT FULL mark if necessary. Reinstall engine cover.

Reassembly

1. Ensure both hose clamps are torqued to specification and positioned correctly
2. Verify hose routing matches original configuration without kinks or contact with moving parts
3. Confirm radiator cap is properly locked in place
4. Wipe down all components to identify any new leaks during test drive

Verification

• With engine at operating temperature, visually inspect both hose connections for leaks
• Check coolant level in recovery reservoir - should be at HOT FULL mark when engine is hot
• Squeeze the upper radiator hose to verify it is firm and pressurized when engine is at operating temperature
• Test drive vehicle for 10-15 minutes, then recheck coolant level and inspect for leaks
• Monitor coolant temperature gauge during test drive - should remain in normal range
• After vehicle cools completely, recheck coolant level and top off if necessary

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