Radiator Hose - Lower

Replace the lower radiator hose on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo, including coolant draining and refilling with proper bleeding procedure.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if original clamps are damaged) × 2 — Worm-gear style, size appropriate

Fluids

• Maserati OAT Coolant — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock location
4. Remove engine undertray covers if necessary for access
5. Have new coolant and parts ready before draining system

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Locate the radiator drain petcock at the bottom driver's side of the radiator. Slowly open the petcock to drain coolant into the drain pan. Remove the coolant reservoir cap to allow faster draining and venting. Allow system to drain completely.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove engine cover
   Remove the plastic engine cover by pulling upward on the front edge to release the clips, then lifting off. Set aside in a clean area. This provides access to the upper radiator area.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access lower radiator hose connections
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the lower radiator hose. It connects from the bottom of the radiator on the passenger side to the engine block water pump inlet. Identify both hose clamp locations before proceeding.
4. 4

   Release radiator-side hose clamp
   Using hose clamp pliers, compress and slide the spring-type hose clamp away from the radiator connection point, moving it at least 2 inches back on the hose. If equipped with worm-gear clamps, loosen completely with a flathead screwdriver or socket.
   ⚠Residual coolant will drain from the hose. Keep drain pan positioned to catch spillage.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Release engine-side hose clamp
   Locate the hose clamp at the engine block water pump inlet connection. Release this clamp using the same method as the radiator side, moving it back on the hose away from the connection point.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Twist the hose gently at both connection points to break the seal, then pull firmly to remove from the radiator and engine block fittings. The hose may require significant force to remove if it has been in place for an extended period. Inspect both connection points for corrosion or damage.
   ⚠Do not pry against radiator or engine block surfaces with tools as this can cause damage to sealing surfaces.
7. 7

   Prepare connection points
   Clean both the radiator outlet and engine block inlet connection points thoroughly with shop towels. Remove any old hose material, corrosion, or debris. Inspect the metal fittings for cracks or damage. Check that both surfaces are smooth and free of defects.
8. 8

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new hose before installation. Slide the radiator end of the new hose onto the radiator outlet fitting, pushing firmly until it seats completely against the stop. Then attach the engine block end to the water pump inlet, ensuring both connections are fully seated with no gaps visible.
   ℹ️Ensure the hose routing matches the original path and does not contact sharp edges, moving parts, or exhaust components.
9. 9

   Secure hose clamps
   Position the hose clamp at the radiator connection approximately 1/4 inch from the end of the fitting. Tighten to specification. Repeat for the engine block connection clamp. For spring-type clamps, compress and position over the center of the connection fitting.
   Torque spec

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

    Close drain petcock and refill coolant
    Close and hand-tighten the radiator drain petcock to specification. Begin filling the cooling system with fresh Maserati OAT coolant through the coolant reservoir. Fill slowly to allow air to escape. Fill to the MAX line on the reservoir.
    ⚠Only use Maserati OAT coolant. The system capacity is 10 quarts total.
    Torque spec

    Drain Petcock7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Bleed cooling system
    Start the engine with the coolant reservoir cap off. Allow engine to reach operating temperature while monitoring coolant level. As the thermostat opens and air purges, the coolant level will drop. Add coolant as needed to maintain the MAX level. Run engine until the cooling fans cycle on, indicating proper system function. Shut off engine and verify coolant level once cooled.
    ⚠️Monitor engine temperature closely. If temperature exceeds normal range, shut off immediately and investigate for air pockets or leaks.
12. 12

    Inspect for leaks
    With engine at operating temperature, carefully inspect both hose connections for any coolant seepage. Check the drain petcock and all disturbed connections. Wipe dry with a shop towel and observe for several minutes. If any leaks are detected, allow engine to cool, then re-tighten clamps or address the leak source.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine cover by aligning clips and pressing firmly into place
2. Reinstall undertray covers if removed during access
3. Top off coolant reservoir to MAX line after final cooling cycle
4. Properly dispose of old coolant according to local regulations

Verification

• Start engine and verify no coolant leaks at lower hose connections after reaching operating temperature
• Confirm cooling fans cycle on and off normally
• Check coolant level in reservoir is at MAX line when engine is cold
• Verify no coolant odor or steam from engine bay
• Test drive vehicle and monitor temperature gauge remains in normal range

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