Ordered upper and lower radiator hoses (Gates) from Rock Auto. Shouldn't the lower hose have a spring in it? The one I got doesn't.
"They say" that the new hoses don't need them, but that's bull. I had all kinds of issues with running hot because they weren't in there. I found one in an old hose I had in my parts stash that I put in the lower and also found another that wasn't complete(lol) that I put in my upper to keep it from collapsing as well. I forget now, but one of the online Chevy or Ford parts suppliers sells the spring by itself. It will come up if you Google it.
Amazon.com: Inline Tube Replacement For 1964-77 GM Lower Radiator Spring, 12-1/2" L x 1-3/16" DIA, 1pc : Automotive
You do not need a spring in the upper hose since when things are working as they should the upper hose is under pressure. The only time the upper hose see's suction is if the stat is stuck closed and then there's no coolant flow taking place anyway and it does not matter if the upper hose is under some level of suction
I had heard the same response when I had called gates. Even though it technically the suction hose. They now are made with a stiffer material. I would put a spring in it
