busted coolant line while changing alt on 3.4L

[birdwell]

First off, I'd like to say that this a great source of information for DIYers like myself - thanks a lot!!

 

I own a 92 cutlass supreme 3.4L, and this weekend I bit the bullet and replaced the alternator. I started out following the haynes manual procedure, removed the axle and everything, but I still couldn't get to that infamous rear bolt. Then I found this site, and the 45-minute write-up. Once I dropped the sub frame and finally got the rear bolt out (and threw it as far as I could) I had the new alt in and everything back together and running in less than 2 hours.

 

Anyway, in the process of getting the old alt out, I bumped the metal coolant line that runs directly underneath the fenderwell (I had to pass the sockett & extension between this line and the fenderwell to tighten the lower alt bolt). I'm pretty sure It cracked right where the mounting bracket is welded to it, as it immediately started dripping coolant. I can see where this connects to the radiator, but I can't quite tell where the other end is - I'm guessing the tranny. Would it be easier for me to find a replacement for this or should I just take it out and have it welded?

 

I appreciate any info on this.

[slick]

Those lines rust and crack. Common problem. Best thing to do is just get a new one.

[birdwell]

OK, thanks. Does that line run to/from the transaxle? Or maybe the heater core? I just wnat to know what part I'm looking for.

 

Is it even possible to replace it with a rubber hose re-routed?

[5speedz34]

OK, thanks. Does that line run to/from the transaxle? Or maybe the heater core? I just wnat to know what part I'm looking for.

 

Is it even possible to replace it with a rubber hose re-routed?

 

Runs from the heater core to the water pump IIRC. Most people just take it out and put a rubber hose in place.

[1990lumina]

Most people just take it out and put a rubber hose in place.

 

 

Good luck man!

[birdwell]

Thanks a lot for the info....rubber hose it shall be.

[jdcutty]

Yeah, do the rubber hose. The entire metal line is a dealer only part and will run you somewhere around 60 bucks. cut it and put rubber hose in where it is leaking cause it will probably be hard to get a rubber hose to bend in all the right spots to replace it.