Windstar Coolant Bypass Hose replacement questions

Hi All,

I took my Windstar into Canadian Tire and had a coolant leak diagnosed, and they recommended I get the Coolant Bypass hose replaced.

I can get the part from a Ford Dealership in town, but I'm wondering if a 'non Ford' part would do?

Also, I was wondering if anyone on the Forum can provide step by step instructions for replacement of the Coolant Bypass hose?

Thanks

Brian

When I ordered the bypass hose for my '96 3.8L windstar, I got the "U" shaped hose and the cross over pipe.
I ordered Motorcraft brand.
I looked up this part recently and it now says "hose only".
The bypass hose "U" shaped is on the passenger side, connects to the pipe that comes off the water pump.....going toward the firewall......the "U" shaped hose connects to the crossover pipe....which comes out of the bottom of the lower intake manifold and makes a 90 degree turn......heading back toward the firewall.

I replaced the crossover pipe and "U" hose together when I replaced the lower intake manifold gaskets.

I have read posts about the cross over pipe leaking.....as well as the "U" hose leaking.
Mine were not leaking.....but I wanted to replace them while I had things all apart....since I had to mess with them anyhow.

I do know that it would be a not difficult job....but like many things....getting your hands / tools onto it it hard due to the location.

What year windstar are you working on?....it might help get an answer from someone with your version.
The 95 is one version....similar to the '96..... The 96-98 is another version.....and the 1999 and newer is yet another version.

The model is 2001. I did purchase the part from Ford yesterday after Canadian Tire said that I would only be able to get the part from Ford. It was 80 bucks, and replaced it last night. Wasn't too tough. It was the hose and the pipe.

Thanks for your response wiswind (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/member.php?u=232194)