Gates 18246 HVAC Heater Hose

Gates 18246 Molded Heater Hose Overview

Gates 18246 is a factory-molded HVAC heater hose built for tight engine bays where a straight hose will not route correctly. Made from EPDM, it is shaped for OEM-style fitment and is suitable for coolant, water, and air service, with marine application approval.

This molded heater hose is a practical replacement for vehicles that need a precise coolant hose path, including Ford Windstar, Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Cavalier, Pontiac Sunfire, and Pontiac Grand Am applications. The Gates Molded Heater Hose line focuses on formed routing for smaller, tighter-fitting engine compartments.

Key Features

• Gates part number 18246
• OEM-style molded hose profile for accurate routing
• EPDM construction for HVAC heater hose service
• End I.D. 8 mm (.32 in) on both ends
• Centerline length: 19.6 in (498 mm)
• Suitable for coolant, water, and air applications
• Approved for marine applications

Detailed Product Description

Gates 18246 is a molded coolant and heater hose formed to match the routing demands of modern engine compartments. Its 19.6-inch centerline length and 8 mm inside diameter at both ends make it a direct-style replacement for systems that require a shaped hose rather than a universal cut-to-fit line. The EPDM material is commonly used in cooling-system service for its resistance to heat and fluid exposure.

As part of the Gates Molded Heater Hose line, this hose is built for applications where space is limited and the hose must follow a specific path between components. It cross-references Continental 64126 for the same application.

Vehicle Fitment

• Fits 1999-2003 Ford Windstar, Reservoir To Intake Tube
• Fits 2001-2003 Toyota Highlander, Throttle Body To Thermostat
• Fits 2000-2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, Radiator To Reservoir
• Fits 2000-2002 Pontiac Sunfire, Radiator To Reservoir
• Fits 1996-1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, Tank To Radiator
• Fits 1999 Pontiac Grand Am, Reservoir To Radiator
• Fits 1996-1999 Pontiac Sunfire, Tank To Radiator
• Fits 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier, Radiator To Tank
• Fits 1995 Pontiac Sunfire, Radiator To Tank

Common Problems This Hose Can Address

• Cracked or leaking molded heater hose sections
• Incorrect hose routing in tight engine compartments
• Coolant loss at reservoir, radiator, or thermostat connections
• Heat-related hose hardening or collapse
• Replacement needs for formed HVAC coolant hose routing

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify hose routing, end diameter, and centerline length before installation. Compare the original hose shape to the new Gates 18246 hose to confirm the molded bends match the vehicle’s coolant path. Inspect adjoining fittings, clamps, and connection points for wear or corrosion before installing the replacement hose.

Quality Assurance

Gates is a recognized supplier of molded cooling-system hoses, and this hose follows an OEM-style formed design for accurate fitment in the listed applications. The EPDM construction and molded profile support consistent service in coolant, water, air, and approved marine use.