Has anyone replaced the small coolant bypass hose next to the thermostat housing? Mine started leaking the other day so I'm in the process of trying to replace it this weekend. The two pipes that the hose connects together are about 1/4 inch apart so I can't get the old hose off without cutting it (not a problem) but then I won't be able to slide a new hose on. I tried to remove the pipe by the thermostat housing but can't get anything but a cresent wrench on the fitting. I went out and bought a set of crowfoot wrenches but the largest size was a 22 mm and that is too small. The crescent wrench is rounding off the nut that screws into the block and it hasn't moved at all. I've removed the belts and the thermostat housing and I'm hoping that I don't have to remove the timing belt covers and timing belt to get a better grip on it. Does anyone know what size the nut is because maybe the proper size crowfoot wrench might be the answer. I realize that the pipe has been screwed in for 18 years and is probably a little reluctant to come loose. Any positive suggestions would be appreciated (so Deacon, if you're out there don't bother to reply.) Thanks for your help.

 

Are you refering for the coolant lines the run to the passenger cabin? I'm actually not familiar with which one your talking about.

S

 

No, there is a 2 1/2 inch hose that connects to the bypass from the thermostat to another pipe that connects to the block. It's mounted under the fuel pressure valve. I stopped by the local Nissan dealer and spoke with one of the mechanics today. He couldn't remember the exact layout so we looked at the FSM. The options are to (1) use silicone on the hose and try to slide it on - doesn't work as the gap between the two pipes is about 1/4 inch and the hose doesn't bend that much (2) remove the fitting under the fuel pressure valve and slide the hose on then reconnect the fitting (3) remove the thermostat housing mounted to the block and then reconnect. There is absolutely no room to get at anything. I've got the belts, thermostat, water pump pulley, and overflow container removed as well as plug wires, vacuum lines, etc. It looks like I'll have to remove the cruise control vacuum container to get at the bolts that hold in the fittting that mounts to the block. There's an O-ring that mounts on the back of the fitting that the dealer didn't have in stock. There is also an O-ring that mounts to the pipe in the back of the thermostat housing and it bolts from the back as well. I don't even know how to get at that. This tiny hose is taking longer to replace than the timing belt did and is much more frustrating . So, I'll keep plugging away at it and hopefully get it done before the end of the week.