'Refreshing' old braided hoses

[BRE-240Z]

That Insultherm techflex stuff looks awesome! I think I'll do that all around....

For a straight hose, I think it would be fantastic. The problem with the hoses on the 240Z is that there are a lot of relatively complex bends. I don't know how well that stuff would work for most of the stock hoses....I mean, wouldn't it kink and bend and look funny?

[ddezso]

For a straight hose, I think it would be fantastic. The problem with the hoses on the 240Z is that there are a lot of relatively complex bends. I don't know how well that stuff would work for most of the stock hoses....I mean, wouldn't it kink and bend and look funny?

Good thinking. I was so excited I was planning to order this for everything today. Does anyone know if it kinks, bends, and looks funny?

[Arne]

Another thought is that the largest Insultherm size is 1", at least on that website. Not large enough for radiator hoses.

[DatsunZGuy]

Good thinking. I was so excited I was planning to order this for everything today. Does anyone know if it kinks, bends, and looks funny?

On page 181 (1990 Edition) of Wick Humble’s book, How to Restore Your Datsun Z-Car, it shows the author using a nylon braided sleeve on the brake vacuum lines. In fact, the photo shows the braided sleeve going around a 90 degree bend of hose.

Another thought is that the largest Insultherm size is 1", at least on that website. Not large enough for radiator hoses.

The FLEXO PET type of braided cover comes in up to 3 inched in diameter and can withstand temperatures up 257 degrees Fahrenheit, which should be sufficient for a radiator hose application.

https://www.wirecare.com/wirecarephp1/wc_product_list.php?prod=PTN&prodline=ES

[ddezso]

I am still running the original braided hoses (and numbered spark plug wires) on my car as well. Some of my hoses were starting to turn gray and fray at the ends, so I decided to fix it. The best technique I have found so far to restore them is to do the following:

1. Wash with mild dishwashing liquid and hot water

2. Let dry for at least 24 hours

3. If the hose ends fabric is frayed, use clear Shoe Goo (this stuff is the bomb!) on the end to keep the fabric in place

4. Apply a couple coats of black Plasti Dip in the aerosol can to the hose and let dry

Here is the result:

Now the dilemma is my hoses now look restored, but can they be trusted on a long road trip? For peace of mind, I am considering switching to new hoses and covering them with Techflex braided sleeves.

https://www.wirecare.com/wirecarephp1/wc_product_list.php?prod=FGN&prodline=ES

That way, I have the reliability of new hoses and the braided look of the originals.

The insultherm hose arrived and I had mixed results. Since it does 'expand' permanently a bit when stretched I found it didnt work well on hoses that bend. It is possible I bought the wrong size of insultherm. It really worked well on the pictured water hose (straight one just above the oil filter). Its tough to get clean ends since it is fireproof and heating has no effect. It is also obviously shinier than cloth braiding...

[Arne]

I was talking with one of the lesser know Z car parts suppliers not too long ago, I don't want to mention his name until I get more info from him. He mentioned that he was trying to acquire a machine which would braid new hoses to duplicate the original braided hoses many of us would like to find.

Any new info on this? I'm probably going to replace all my hoses later this spring.

[26th-Z]

Yea, interesting thread. Braided hose in straight lengths is still available commonly. The Germans use it. Braiding is close, but not correct. I have heard of inserting copper tubing inside straight hose and bending it to replicate the brake master vac. hose although I haven't tried that myself. I don't think one has to have the real stuff to score a gold medallion - just have the hoses one way or the other, braided or plain - not mixed.