A Guide to Radiator Coolant Hoses for the 1955-1956 Studebaker E12
Keep your classic Studebaker truck's engine cool and prevent breakdowns by choosing the right radiator hoses.
- Always choose new aftermarket hoses from quality brands like Gates or Continental for your E12.
- Avoid New Old Stock (NOS) OEM hoses, as the rubber will be degraded and unsafe after 70+ years.
- Inspect hoses regularly for cracks, bulges, or a soft, spongy feel to catch problems early.
- When one radiator hose fails, replace both the upper and lower hoses and the clamps at the same time.
Symptoms of a Failing Radiator Hose
For a classic truck like the 1955-1956 Studebaker E12, rubber parts wear out from age and heat. It's not a question of if your hoses will fail, but when. Look for these signs to prevent getting stranded.
- Coolant Leaks: Finding puddles of green or yellow, sweet-smelling fluid under the front of your truck is a clear sign of a leak. Check where the hoses connect to the radiator and engine.
- Visible Damage: Look closely at the hoses. If you see cracks, splits, or areas that are swollen or bulging, the hose is failing and could burst at any time.
- Spongy or Hard Hoses: When the engine is cool, squeeze the hoses. They should be firm but not rock-hard. A hose that feels mushy, spongy, or extremely hard and brittle needs to be replaced. Oil contamination can make a hose feel soft and spongy.
- Engine Overheating: If your temperature gauge climbs into the red, a bad radiator hose could be the reason. A hose can collapse internally, blocking coolant flow even if it looks fine on the outside.
- Low Coolant Level: If you have to add coolant often, you probably have a slow leak. A worn-out hose is a very common cause.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hose
When shopping for parts for a vintage Studebaker, you have a few options. For rubber parts like radiator hoses, the choice is simple.
A Warning on "New Old Stock" (NOS) Parts
You might find an original Studebaker hose from the 1950s still in its box. This is called New Old Stock, or NOS. Do not use it. Rubber breaks down over 70 years, even when sitting on a shelf. An NOS hose will be brittle and cannot be trusted. Modern aftermarket hoses are made with better materials and are the only safe and reliable choice for your truck.
Aftermarket Brand Quality: Gates vs. Continental
For the 1955-1956 E12, new aftermarket hoses are available from reputable brands like Gates and Continental (often sold as ContiTech). Both are known for making quality parts. Gates is a common supplier for American vehicles and is generally trusted for good fit and quality. Continental is another excellent choice. You can find pre-shaped, molded hoses from these brands that are designed to fit your truck correctly. You can't go wrong with either brand for keeping your Studebaker's cooling system in top shape.
Pro Tip: When you get your new hoses, compare them side-by-side with the old ones to make sure the bends and openings match. It is also a very good idea to replace your hose clamps at the same time you replace the hoses.
Typical Costs for Radiator Hose Replacement
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hoses (Gates, Continental) | $25.11 - $43.19 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $125 - $245 |
Cost estimates are for parts and labor and can vary by location and shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace both the upper and lower hoses at the same time?
Yes. If one hose has failed from age, the other one is probably in similar condition. Replacing both hoses at once is a smart way to make sure your cooling system is reliable.
My lower hose looks like it's sucked flat. What does that mean?
This is called a collapsed hose and it means the hose has failed internally. The lower hose is on the suction side of the water pump. On many older cars, this hose had a spring inside to keep it from collapsing. If that spring rusts away or the hose gets weak, it can be sucked flat, which stops coolant from flowing and causes overheating. The hose must be replaced immediately.
Do I need to replace the hose clamps?
Yes, it is highly recommended to replace the hose clamps whenever you replace the hoses. Clamps can lose their tension over time or rust, leading to leaks even with a new hose.
What kind of coolant should I use in my Studebaker E12?
For these classic trucks, you should use a traditional green ethylene glycol-based coolant. Check the product details to ensure it is safe for older cooling systems with copper and brass components.
Technical Specifications
Hoses are made of EPDM rubber to resist heat, ozone, and chemical degradation. They are pre-shaped (molded) to fit the specific routing of the Studebaker E12 engine bay. The lower hose may require an internal spring to prevent collapse under vacuum.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.