Oil Hoses FAQ

by Flash #412, Kristian #562 & HsN
compiled & edited by Kristian #562
Edited by Winter, 29 December 2005
Please read the Disclaimer before attempting any work in this FAQ.
29 December 2005

Q. I want to replace my Oil Hoses. Can I use generic Hydraulic Hoses?

A. Yes, Except, If you are replacing your oil hoses, if you are not using OEM replacement hoses, be aware that the hose between the frame oil tank intake strainer and the oil pump in the engine should be a slightly higher grade of hose, rated to resist crushing under vacuum and should include the long coiled reinforcement spring that may be located inside the OEM hose.

Q. Why can't I get the Stock Hose Clamps back on?

• After you have done some maintenance, you may have pulled off one of the Hose-Pipe Clamps or a pipe may constantly pop-off the bike.
• Some folks have had this happen a bit, until they refitted new clamps
• I don't think you should even bother trying to refit it. They look like they are made as "oncers" and though I have managed to squeeze them back together I'm always wary of them failing when you're on the road.
• Get yourself some good quality, preferably stainless hosepipe clamps, that have a flap under the screw or are nice and smooth under the screw, which shields the screw from the rubber. Make sure you get a bunch of them so you can put on the right size.
• Don't try and fit one that's too big and do it up, it's not made for it and you'll end up with a clamp that's out-of-round that will pinch the rubber and not seal very well. Here's the old Waterpump Cover Clamp (left) and the New Clamp (right).

Q. What Hoses Do I need?

by NewMexEd

Ok, so I've replaced all of my hoses...I think:

• 3 coolant
• 3 3/8 in. I.D. oil hoses
• 1 small oil hose from frame to cam cover.

Q. Where the Flibbity Flu does the SPRING go that I bought knowing I would need, but never actually found where it goes...

Part number 11 41 2 345 137 is item number 13 on drawing number 11_1864. It appears to go either around or else inside the lower end of the hose running from the frame/tank fitting (where the screen you don't ever have to clean lives) down to the motor. Does it look to you like it would fit INSIDE the hose? Neither of my bikes have one on the outside of the hose. I'd say it is to keep the hose from kinking shut and starving the bike for oil.