Have a 1999 7.3L Powerstroke with 233,000 miles on it. It needs a coolant flush. Original radiator hoses are still on (I bought truck new) which seem in good condition but it seems prudent to change them now. The Motorcraft hoses are about 4 times more expensive than Gates hoses. Are they that much better? I only drive the truck 3-4K per year but plan on keeping it for another 10 years.
Thanks for your thoughts!
@topfuel1
Motorcraft is owned by FRAM. FRAM is owned by Honeywell.
Anyway, … both sources are satisfactory. Flip a coin, …
F.S.
You don't need to change the hoses until they're cracked or leaking. I have a 93 that still has the OE hoses on it. They're easy to check just squish them with your hand and just do that in a couple spots. If the don't squish or are stiff then you might need to replace that hose. Otherwise you're just wasting your money.
Also if you plan on flushing the coolant yourself be SURE you ONLY use distilled water with the flush kit. After you do that be sure to check for leaks as you fill her back up and keep topping it off as you run the engine as it takes more coolant into the system. GL with the flush
Thanks Jackson! What about thermostat? Practically everything is original on the truck. Only things I've replaced are shocks (twice) water pump and brake pads. I had Les Schwab check the front end...nothing needed.
I'll wait on the hoses but anyone have experience with Gates? Are they as good as Motorcraft?
@topfuel1
I would not hesitate buying gates products.