Breather Hose Mistake!!

[Dave Taylor]

I was hooking up the various hoses after installing my engine and found I had neglected to attach the breather hose at the rear first! I was able to snake it in under the CIS and push it on to the fitting. I then slid a hose clamp on, but after working for an hour or so I wasn't able to tighten it using either a screwdriver or socket with an extension. I just can't seem to get the right angle with all that CIS back there.

My question is.....do I really need a clamp here and if so, then would a partial engine drop give me the room I need?

Thanks

[emcdan]

Yep...you need a clamp. That's a common source for an oil leaks. If you can feel the hose turn by hand, I would say it's not tight enough. Not knowing which model your working on, it can be a tough reach for some. A partial drop gives about extra 6". Taking your CIS boot off gives a little more hand room. Try a mirror also. It sounds like you've got it under control.

[Dave Taylor]

Thanks emcdan,

It's a '74. I can't turn the hose by hand, but I'm going to do the partial drop and put the clamp on. Better than an oil leak back there!
Dave

[Rex Walter]

Dave,

I made the same mistake last time I installed my engine. It's a real PITA to get to. I ended up disconnecting the rear motor mounts and dropping the engine slightly. This allowed me to go in through the passenger wheel well. I'm still not convinced that it is on correctly, and this is an area where leaks occur. My advice is to drop the engine back down and make sure it's on correctly. That's what I wish I did - I still might - just for peace of mind.

Rex

[Dave Taylor]

SUCCESS!!!

OK, today I did a partial drop and was able to secure the clamp on the breather hose. Next I installed the starter and that one nut on top is a real pain! Next time I'm going to just drop the engine and trans together. It's got to make it easier!

[emcdan]

great!