Gates 18396 Molded Heater Hose Coolant Hose Small I.D.

The Gates 18396 is a precision-molded heater hose designed as a direct OEM-style replacement for vehicles requiring small inside diameter coolant routing. Pre-shaped to match factory hose geometry, it installs cleanly without cutting or bending straight hose, ensuring leak-free connections and proper coolant flow to and from the heater core.

Built with an EPDM rubber tube and cover reinforced with synthetic fiber, this hose is engineered to resist electrochemical degradation (ECD) — the leading cause of premature hose failure. ECD occurs when coolant, metal fittings, and hose material interact electrochemically, causing micro-cracks to form in the tube wall over time. Gates' compound formulation actively combats this process for a longer service life.

Key Features:

• EPDM tube, synthetic fiber reinforcement, and EPDM cover construction
• Engineered to resist electrochemical degradation and water permeation
• Operating temperature range: -40°F to +275°F (-40°C to +135°C)
• Meets SAE 20R3 EC Class D1 specification
• Approved for coolant, water, air, and marine applications
• Pre-molded shape for precise OEM-style fitment
• Not for use in fuel or oil transfer applications

Cross-reference part numbers: 10396, 14672S, 16070277, 19523RCAA00. Gates recommends replacing hose clamps each time a new coolant hose is installed for a secure, leak-free seal.