If you’re doing an LS swap or upgrading a cooling system for an LS-powered build, choosing the right radiator hoses matters. This guide highlights five solid options that fit a range of GM trucks, SUVs, and C10/C-body projects. Each product is selected for compatibility, material quality, and practical value in typical LS swap applications. The buyer’s intent is to find reliable hoses that resist collapse, handle high temperatures, and fit the engine bay configuration without unnecessary fabrication. The following quick table helps compare key choices at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| COOL STAR Engine Upper & Lower Radiator Hose Kit | Full hose replacement for many GM trucks and SUVs | Includes upper and lower hoses for broad model compatibility |
| ICT Billet LS G-Body Upper & Lower Hose Kit | 1982-1988 GM G-Body swaps | Premium billet build, great fit for G-Body LS swaps |
| Gates 20734 Premium Molded Coolant Hose | OEM-like fit and reliability | Designed to resist collapse and chemical degradation |
| PQY LS Heater Core Hose Loop | Heater hose routing for LS/LT builds | Silicone, includes clamps, 5/8″ and 3/4″ ends |
| ICT Billet Radiator Hose Kit For 1973-1998 C10 | 73-98 C/K body trucks with LS swap | Custom fit with specific hose connections |
COOL STAR Engine Upper & Lower Radiator Hose Kit
This kit provides both upper and lower hoses compatible with a wide range of GM trucks and SUVs, including Escalade, Suburban, Tahoe, Silverado, and GMC Sierra models from mid-2000s to early 2010s. Best for buyers who want a complete hose set to refresh aging coolant paths and minimize leaks. The kit’s broad compatibility helps avoid sourcing individual hoses for multiple model years.
Best for: general LS swap prep where a full hose replacement is desired. Better for: owners who want a straightforward, one-kit solution. Choose this if: you need a broad, ready-to-install fit without bespoke fabrication.
Caution: verify that your exact model year falls within the listed compatibility to avoid misfit on niche configurations.
ICT Billet LS G-Body Upper & Lower Hose Kit
This kit targets 1982-1988 GM G-Body vehicles, focusing on LS engine swaps. It’s best for builders who want a precise fit with the G-Body’s specific radiator inlet/outlet layout. The data indicates a billet-oriented design that emphasizes durability and an exact hose routing compatible with LS applications in classic body styles.
Best for: G-Body swap projects seeking a clean, factory-like hose path. Better for: users who value a precise, ready-made fit for 1980s GM platforms. Choose this if: you’re swapping an LS into a G-Body and want a snug, reliable hose arrangement.
Caution: not ideal for non-G-Body GM trucks; verify your vehicle series before purchasing.
Gates 20734 Premium Molded Coolant Hose
Gates 20734 is engineered to resist vacuum collapse and electrochemical degradation, common causes of hose failure. It is pre-shaped to fit with reliable seals, making it a solid choice for LS swap projects that require consistent hose dimensions and dependable performance under pressure. It’s especially suitable for builds where OEM-like reliability is prioritized.
Best for: those needing a dependable, pre-shaped hose for a variety of LS swap configurations. Better for: buyers who want strong resistance to chemical wear. Choose this if: you want a trusted brand with molded shapes that align with factory routing.
Caution: may be less flexible for highly custom routing compared to silicone aftermarket options.
PQY LS Heater Core Hose Loop
This silicone hose loop is designed to adjust heater hose outlets on LS/LT engine water pumps, with 5/8″ and 3/4″ ends and accompanying stainless clamps. It serves as a practical solution when routing heater coolant flow in LS swap builds, offering quick adaptation to high-point locations where temperature control matters. The silicone material helps maintain flexibility under heat cycles.
Best for: heater hose routing and LS swap heater loop adjustments. Better for: installations needing a direct, flexible hose path with clamp hardware. Choose this if: you require a silicone solution with ready clamps for faster installation.
Caution: confirm end sizes match your heater core/hose fittings to avoid adapter mismatch.
ICT Billet Upper & Lower Hose Kit For 1973-1998 C10
This ICT Billet kit targets classic C10 pickup trucks from 1973-1998, designed for LS swaps with factory V8 radiator connections. It emphasizes a custom fit for upper and lower hoses that match the C10’s specific radiator mounting and hose routing. It’s a strong pick for owners who want a precise, engineered fit for vintage body geometry.
Best for: LS-swapped C10 and C1500 trucks with factory radiator mounting. Better for: builders who value a dedicated, vehicle-specific hose path. Choose this if: you’re restoring or upgrading a classic C10 with an LS engine swap.
Caution: tailored to C10/early GM trucks; not ideal for modern full-size SUVs or non-C10 platforms.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For LS Swap Radiator Hoses
- Compatibility: Check the model year, body style, and engine swap configuration. Some hoses are built for broad GM platforms, while others target specific generations (G-Body, C10, etc.).
- Material and build: Molded rubber and silicone options offer different levels of flexibility, heat resistance, and durability. Silicone hoses often perform better under extreme temps but can be pricier.
- Fit and routing: Pre-formed hoses reduce installation time but confirm your radiator inlet/outlet positions align with the hose paths. Some kits include both upper and lower hoses only; others add heater loop or adapters.
- Clamps and hardware: Consider whether clamps are included and if stainless steel clamps are necessary for corrosion resistance in hot coolant environments.
- Vehicle-specific notes: For classic trucks (C10, G-Body), opt for kits marketed specifically for that model to ensure proper hose angles and connection sizes.
- Maintenance considerations: Replacement intervals depend on coolant quality and system pressure. Choose hoses with a robust resistance to vacuum and chemical degradation for long-term reliability.
FAQ
- Which hose kit is best for a broad GM truck/SUV LS swap?
– The COOL STAR kit is a practical all-around option with broad compatibility for many GM models. - Do I need silicone hoses for LS swaps?
– Silicone hoses offer excellent heat resistance and durability, but molded rubber hoses may be sufficient for many builds and are typically more affordable. - Are there hoses tailored for G-Body LS swaps?
– Yes, ICT Billet offers a kit specifically designed for GM G-Body swaps, matching the model’s hose routing. - What about heater core hose routing in LS projects?
– PQY’s heater core loop provides a silicone solution with appropriate end sizes and clamps, useful for precise heater routing. - Should I buy a dedicated C10 LS swap hose kit?
– If you own a 1973-1998 C10, ICT Billet’s dedicated C10 kit can ensure proper fit with factory radiator configurations.