Replace radiator and heater hoses ? Options

[Pyrotechnic]

I have a 1998 GT Convertible with 109K on it. It's due for a cooling system flush and fill, and I noticed that all the coolant hoses look original to the car. Now the radiator hoses are no big deal, but it appears that there are bunch of smaller molded hoses for the heater core, oil cooler, throttle body etc. Adding this all up gets quite expensive. This is a lot tougher than other cars where you can just buy a few feet of bulk hose for a few dollars and cut it to fit. The cooling system appears to be in great shape and the car has never had overheating issues.

How long are these hoses good for? The hoses look good on the outside and are soft to the touch like new hose. My instinct tells me that 16 years is way overdue for replacement, but with the cost involved I want to make sure I don't spend a bunch of cash replacing hoses that are perfectly fine.

This post has been edited by Pyrotechnic: Feb 27, 2014 - 12:40 PM

[Galcobar]

That said, the act of replacing the radiator can stress hoses far beyond the usual vibration they'd encounter with running engine, so it's best to examine the hose before and after you replace the radiator to ensure you haven't introduced any new failure on hoses which you have to attach or detach.

[blockustomz]

That said, the act of replacing the radiator can stress hoses far beyond the usual vibration they'd encounter with running engine, so it's best to examine the hose before and after you replace the radiator to ensure you haven't introduced any new failure on hoses which you have to attach or detach.

call me crazy but i'd hate to put in a new rad and get stuck on the side of the road because of a hose.. i'd replace, cheap insurance. but you can get lucky like these guys do