1967-1970 Dodge A108 Van Engine Coolant Bypass Hose: A Complete Guide
This small hose is vital for your classic A108's engine health; ignoring it can lead to major problems.
- A failing bypass hose is a critical issue that can cause severe engine damage from overheating.
- High-quality aftermarket hoses from brands like Gates are the best and only practical option for this classic vehicle.
- Always use a pre-molded hose; do not use a straight hose as it can kink and block coolant flow.
- It is highly recommended to replace the hose clamps at the same time as the hose to ensure a proper, leak-free seal.
Is Your A108's Bypass Hose Failing?
On a classic vehicle like the Dodge A108, rubber components are often the first parts to fail simply due to age. A problem with any part of the cooling system, no matter how small, can quickly lead to engine overheating and catastrophic damage. It is crucial to recognize the warning signs of a failing coolant bypass hose.
Symptoms of a Bad Engine Coolant Bypass Hose
A bad bypass hose will make itself known in a few ways. Catching these signs early can save you from a much bigger repair bill.
- Coolant Leaks: This is the most common symptom. You may find puddles of green, orange, or yellow fluid under the front of your van. The bypass hose is a short, curved hose usually located near the water pump and thermostat housing.
- Steam or a Sweet Smell: If leaking coolant drips onto hot engine parts, it will burn off and create steam with a distinct sweet smell.
- Low Coolant Level: A slow leak from a cracked hose can cause a gradual loss of coolant, forcing you to top off the radiator frequently.
- Visible Hose Damage: Inspect the hose when the engine is cool. Look for cracks, splits, hardening, or any signs of swelling or a soft, spongy texture. Any visible damage means the hose needs to be replaced immediately.
- Engine Overheating: A major leak or a collapsed hose will cause the engine temperature gauge to climb into the red. If this happens, pull over and shut off the engine immediately to prevent permanent damage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hose
For a vintage van like the A108, finding New Old Stock (NOS) or new OEM hoses is practically impossible. The standard and most reliable choice is a high-quality aftermarket hose.
Brand Quality: Gates
Gates is the primary brand available for this specific part. Fortunately, Gates is a highly respected manufacturer known for producing OEM-quality or better belts and hoses. Their hoses are typically made from modern EPDM rubber, which is engineered to resist heat, ozone, and electrochemical degradation—the leading cause of hose failure from the inside out. Forum users and mechanics often prefer Gates for their precise, pre-molded shape which ensures a better fit compared to some other aftermarket brands.
Pro Tip: Do not use a straight piece of bulk hose for this repair. The bypass hose has specific bends to route it correctly. A straight hose will likely kink, restricting coolant flow and causing the engine to overheat.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the engine coolant bypass hose can vary based on whether you do it yourself or take it to a professional mechanic.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hose (Gates) | $81.22 |
| Shop Labor | $110 - $220 |
| Total Professional Repair | $191 - $301 |
Cost estimates are based on the provided part price and national labor averages of 1-2 hours for this type of repair. Prices can vary by location and repair shop.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
There are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for the engine coolant bypass hose on the 1967-1970 Dodge A108 Van. Any failure of this part today is due to the natural aging and degradation of the original rubber. Given the vehicle's age, it is highly recommended to inspect all cooling system hoses and replace any that show signs of wear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the A108 bypass hose myself?
Yes, for most owners with basic hand tools, this is a DIY-friendly job. However, on the Slant-6 engine, this hose is very short and located in a tight space, which can make it a frustrating task. Soaking the new hose in hot water can make it more pliable and easier to install. Always remember to replace the hose clamps.
How often should I replace my coolant hoses?
For a classic vehicle, it is wise to replace all coolant hoses preventatively every 5-7 years, regardless of their appearance. If you don't know how old the hoses are on your A108, you should plan to replace them all as soon as possible.
Is the Gates hose a good replacement for the original?
Yes. High-quality aftermarket brands like Gates are the best and most practical option for this classic van. Modern hoses from Gates are often made with superior materials like EPDM rubber, which lasts longer and resists degradation better than the original factory hoses.
What engines were in the 1967-1970 Dodge A108?
The A108 was commonly equipped with Slant-6 engines (like the 170, 225 cid) and could also have small block V8s (like the 273 or 318 cid). Ensure the bypass hose you order is correct for your specific engine, as they are different.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 22776
The hose for the Slant-6 engine is a short, molded rubber hose connecting the water pump housing to the cylinder head. V8 models use a different hose. Hoses are typically made of EPDM rubber to resist heat and chemical degradation.
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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.