K, did a search for "Vacuum hose+sheath" got nothing. My mechanic replaced all my vacuum hoses with this type of hose that has a fabric sheath. Sounds like a good idea, it keeps the hoses from kinking and it gives it protection from heat and getting cut. So anyone ever use these hoses, or knows of its existence? I don't know the name brand, but I figure it's unique enough that there wouldn't be a lot of manufacturers.

 

if your mechanic recommend it then why not..

 

I agree, but had a thought...I don't know what kind of material is used for hose. Is it silicone, or the typical material they use for vacuum hoses. My concern is that the sheath prevents me from inspecting the condition of the actual hose. What kind of life span can I expect from this hose?

 

You have no way of predicting lifespan of that hose unless you're very sure of the material.

Fabric sheathing is good against abrasion, but the hoses are well protected in this car. It will probably not protect against heat at all unless it's a reflective, tightly-knit material. The real enemy is heat, oil, and gas fumes, which will either soften (silicone) or embrittle (stock rubber) hoses. I say don't use the sheathed versions - they will be a pain to deal with (higher labor cost) and won't add any value. He probably just has some laying around he wants to get rid of. In fact, they will probably fare worse in heat than silicone or viton hoses.

If you're going to make an effort to do it right, I see two options: 1) silicone (get high quality stuff), 2) viton (the best).

I really like the viton, personally, but quality silicone is also quite good. The advantage of viton are that is really grips the nipples well without zip-ties, and it is almost impervious to heat, oil, and gas vapor. Silicone does come in more colors at a lower cost, and will probably still outlast the rest of the car. If you want a sample of the viton I can send a little scrap piece, or PM hightempsilicone for a sample.

Dave

 

Because his mechanic might be experimenting, or isn't used to an engine that gets this hot, or because he doesn't care and is trying to unload a roll of the stuff in his back room, or because he doesn't know any better...

I'm coming off like a ***** here, I'm sure, but the point is if you're going to go in and re-hose an FD you should use the right material. And there aren't many materials out there up to the task. If there were, I'll be the OEM hoses would be made of it.

Dave

 

were can I get this stuff. how much do I need, sizes, price? thanks for your help.

 

It's just vacuum tubing with a protective cover over it (hence sheath). You might find out what type of material the vacuum tubing was.