Topic: Radiator Hoses - need quality!

[Tiggie]

Looking for a new set of radiator hoses for my 68/289/24" radiator. 

Previously had Marti reproductions FoMoCo/without the stapled clamps. After three years and 2000 miles, they are unacceptably stiff. The top one rubs the A/C compressor bracket as well. The Marti-sourced heater hoses are holding up fine.

Considering trying the newer Marti Autolite/with stapled clamps, as should be correct for my car. But I am concerned the quality will be the same as the others.

Anyone try the Scott Drake brand, or are they just rebranded/same as Marti?

I like the look of the logo-stamped hoses but the quality needs to be better for my occasional driver. Considering grabbing some gross Autozone hoses if they fit correctly.

[Bob Gaines]

Looking for a new set of radiator hoses for my 68/289/24" radiator. 

Previously had Marti reproductions FoMoCo/without the stapled clamps. After three years and 2000 miles, they are unacceptably stiff. The top one rubs the A/C compressor bracket as well. The Marti-sourced heater hoses are holding up fine.

Considering trying the newer Marti Autolite/with stapled clamps, as should be correct for my car. But I am concerned the quality will be the same as the others.

Anyone try the Scott Drake brand, or are they just rebranded/same as Marti?

I like the look of the logo-stamped hoses but the quality needs to be better for my occasional driver. Considering grabbing some gross Autozone hoses if they fit correctly.

In the past Marti sourced radiator hoses from OEM mfg like Goodyear, Dayco etc. as the basis for his stamped hoses.  I and others have had ones that have stood up for decades.
I am sure there are some that went bad but they are more the exception then the rule.   I would think that the Scott Drake hoses given their other off shore made products would have a greater chance being lessor quality foreign made.

[Tiggie]

These radiator hoses are stiff enough that they cracked on the ends instead of flexed! The heater hoses were installed at the same time, and they are great.  I'm not sure why the radiator hoses degraded so much.