1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose. Adhering to these instructions will help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the product within your vehicle's cooling system. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or maintenance.
2. Product Overview
The Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose is engineered for transferring glycol-based coolants within a vehicle's cooling system, specifically to and from the heater core, or as a bypass to the radiator. Its design ensures a precise fit for various applications.
Image 2.1: Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose, showcasing its curved form. This hose is designed for specific routing within a vehicle's engine compartment.
Key Features:
- Material Composition: Constructed with an EPDM tube and cover, reinforced with synthetic knit for durability and resistance to degradation.
- Coolant Compatibility: Compatible with most coolants, including ethylene glycol- and propylene glycol-based coolants, as well as organic acid modified, long-life coolants.
- Performance Standards: Meets or exceeds SAE 20R3EC Class D1 and Class D2 specifications, along with many original equipment specifications.
- Electrochemical Degradation (ECR) Resistant: Designed to resist common causes of hose failure.
- Temperature Range: Operates effectively in temperatures from -40°F to 275°F (-40°C to 135°C).
- Flow Maintenance: Engineered to maintain full coolant flow.
Important Note: This hose is not intended for use in fuel or oil transfer applications.
3. Installation Guide
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and safety of your vehicle's cooling system. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
Safety Precautions:
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before beginning any work on the cooling system.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
- Coolant is toxic. Handle with care and dispose of properly according to local regulations.
Installation Steps:
- Vehicle Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool completely.
- Drain Coolant: Place a suitable drain pan under the radiator draincock or lower radiator hose. Open the draincock or carefully disconnect the lower hose to drain the coolant.
- Locate and Remove Old Hose: Identify the heater hose to be replaced. Loosen the clamps securing the old hose to the heater core and engine/water pump connections. Carefully twist and pull the old hose off.
- Inspect Connections: Clean any residue from the connection points on the heater core and engine/water pump. Inspect for corrosion or damage.
- Install New Hose: Slide new hose clamps onto the new Continental 63122 hose. Position the new hose onto the connection points, ensuring it is fully seated.
- Secure Clamps: Position the hose clamps over the connection points and tighten them securely. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the hose.
- Refill Coolant: Close the radiator draincock (if opened). Refill the cooling system with the manufacturer-recommended coolant mixture.
- Bleed Air: Start the engine with the heater on high and the radiator cap off (or reservoir cap off, depending on system). Allow the engine to reach operating temperature to open the thermostat and circulate coolant, bleeding air from the system. Top off coolant as needed.
- Final Inspection: Once the engine has cooled, check coolant levels again and inspect all connections for leaks.
Image 3.1: An S-shaped variant of the Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose. The specific molding ensures correct fitment and routing, preventing kinks and abrasion.
4. Operation
The Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose operates passively as an integral component of your vehicle's cooling and heating system. Once correctly installed, it continuously facilitates the transfer of coolant between the engine, heater core, and radiator, contributing to engine temperature regulation and cabin heating.
No direct user interaction is required for the hose's operation beyond ensuring the overall cooling system is functioning correctly and maintained.
5. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your cooling system components, including the heater hose, are essential for preventing failures and ensuring vehicle reliability.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule:
- Every 6 Months or 5,000 Miles:
- Visually inspect the hose for signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, hardening, or softening.
- Check for any signs of coolant leaks around the hose connections.
- Ensure hose clamps are tight and free from corrosion.
- Every 2-3 Years or 30,000-50,000 Miles (or as per vehicle manufacturer's recommendation):
- Consider replacing heater hoses as a preventative measure, even if they appear to be in good condition, as rubber components degrade over time.
- Perform a complete cooling system flush and refill with fresh coolant.
Image 5.1: A U-shaped configuration of the Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose. Regular inspection of such bends is important to detect early signs of wear or stress.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues related to your heater hose, the following guide may assist in identifying potential problems.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Leak at Hose Connection | Loose or corroded clamp, damaged hose end, improper installation. | Tighten or replace clamp. Inspect hose end for damage; replace hose if necessary. Ensure hose is fully seated. |
| Hose Appears Swollen or Bulging | Internal damage, excessive pressure in cooling system, age-related degradation. | Replace hose immediately. Inspect cooling system for pressure issues (e.g., faulty radiator cap, head gasket). |
| Hose Feels Hard or Brittle | Age-related degradation, exposure to extreme temperatures or incompatible fluids. | Replace hose. Consider a cooling system flush if coolant quality is suspect. |
| Hose Collapses When Engine Cools | Faulty radiator cap (not allowing air in), blockage in overflow system. | Replace radiator cap. Check overflow hose and reservoir for obstructions. |
For persistent issues or complex problems, consult a qualified automotive technician.
7. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 63122 |
| Brand | Continental |
| Manufacturer | Continental ContiTech |
| Material | EPDM tube and cover with synthetic knit reinforcement |
| Temperature Range | -40°F to 275°F (-40°C to 135°C) |
| ID Range | 1/4-inches to 1-3/8-inches (includes intersect hose configurations) |
| Standards Met | SAE 20R3EC Class D1 and Class D2, various OEM specifications |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5.24 x 12 x 4 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.48 ounces |
| UPC | 037256152962 |
What's in the Box:
- One (1) Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding the Continental 63122 Molded Heater Hose, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact Continental customer support directly. Warranty terms and conditions may vary.
For technical assistance or further inquiries, please visit the official Continental website or contact their customer service department. When contacting support, please have your product model number (63122) and purchase details available.
