Jpjlauer
ELKHART, IN
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I'm curious about is all the rubber items other than tires - hoses, belts, brake lines, etc. that are found on a vehicle - a 2005 Gulfstream BTCruiser in my case. I've never seen a discussion about these "other rubber" items.
Should these items be replaced after 5 years?
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edited 11/16/09 07:48am by an administrator/moderator *
Jim Lauer
Not All Who Wander
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JFG
TN
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The two main envirnomental issues with tires are UV and Ozone. The items you mentioned are normally shaded nfrom UV but are suseptable to Ozone and wear.
I would definitely look at 5 year old belts... check for small cracks. If present, the replace.
Fred
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fordsooperdooty
Orange Kounty Kalifornia
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More often modern items like hoses and tubing are either rubber blended with synthetics or silicone based products...and last much longer without degradation than the older rubber products. The belts are different rubber compound than tires as well, but the same aging processes are there that are the cause of rubber tires cracking and failing. They should be replaced when obvious signs of aging are seen during inspections, cracking, brittleness, etc. Modern cars serpentine belts commonly are recommended to be replaced at between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, and I believe they are blended with synthetic rubber products. I've seen 20 and 30 year old cars with the original brake lines, but the fan belts and radiator hoses should checked when the oil is changed.
I inherited a 1961 Studebaker Hawk with 40,000 original miles from my Grandpa, and just the fan belt radiator hoses had been replaced. And my Dad's 1976 Lazy Daze Class C brake lines are original.
This is our 7th new Jayco in 30 years! Loved 'em all!
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Jpjlauer
ELKHART, IN
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Thanks for the advice. I'll be sure to have all misc rubber items closely inspected before I head out this winter. Looks like replacing this stuff is not as controversial as tires.
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edited 11/16/09 07:49am by an administrator/moderator *
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j-d
Sunny Florida USA
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I've become convinced that replacing the flex rubber brake hoses no later than ten years, or on a caliper change, is a good idea. They can deteriorate inside and restrict return of fluid from the calipers, causing them to drag and overheat. Especially disc brakes, drums have springs to force fluid back.
Time's coming up for radiator hoses. Also, the radiator hose clamps on Fords seem to start allowing leaks. I'd replace those with quality stainless ones. Some of the chain store clamps are junk.
God Bless, jd
2003 Jayco Escapade 31A on 2002 Ford E450 V10 4R100
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