Check engine light on and lower radiator hose sometimes leaks

lonniep · June 21, 2015, 09:56 PM

I just finished taking out the radiator, had a new core put in. Also changed everything I could (not power steering pump) while I had the radiator out. Put it all back together. Now check engine light is on and lower radiator hose leaks after I run it for a while. It gets better... I tried to tighten the clamp on the hose and I overtightened and now the hose won't stay on at all. Help

TerryH · June 22, 2015, 12:20 AM

You did say you changed everything, but I will comment.
You obviously had the rad out - a lot of work. Given a 454 (lots of info here re: belt issues) I would have changed all belts, hoses and clamps. Keep the old for back-up.
Water pump, given the relatively low price, and because you were there already, yes I would have replaced as well.
As for your lower rad hose, clamp and leak if you did not replace the hose and clamp that would be the first to check. Split hose, old hose and/or over tightening an existing problem.
CEL - there are a lot of people here that are far more knowledgeable than I that will help you. One thing you can depend on here is excellent help.

DaveVA78Chieftain · June 22, 2015, 08:21 PM

On that year model (Carburetor) , Check engine light is related to the AIR pump system. Recheck vacuum hoses and wires.

Dave

jeno · June 22, 2015, 08:32 PM

i just took my air system off and mine lite is on also any ideas to get it off? also my chock lite is on.

DaveVA78Chieftain · June 22, 2015, 09:11 PM

remove the bulb?

Chock light? That is a new one on me.

gpw9552 · June 22, 2015, 09:45 PM

If you didn't clamp close enough to the radiator, you have probably partially collapsed the tube and need to straighten it.

Rickf1985 · June 23, 2015, 07:02 AM

Quote from: jeno on June 22, 2015, 08:32 PM
i just took my air system off and mine lite is on also any ideas to get it off? also my chock lite is on.

There is a plug on the left side of the air cleaner looking down on it from above. It is part of the AIR system and it has to remain plugged in I believe. Try it both ways, one way or the other the light will go off.

Choke light is probably a disconnected wire. Check around the carburetor for any homeless wires. especially on the passenger side.

jeno · June 24, 2015, 07:28 PM

thanks will do.