Gates 18704 HVAC Heater Hose

Gates Molded Heater Hose 18704 Overview

Gates 18704 is a molded HVAC heater hose built for tight engine bays where a factory-shaped coolant hose is needed. This OE-style molded hose uses EPDM construction and a 16 mm (0.62 in) inside diameter at both ends for direct-fit routing in select Mitsubishi, Pontiac, Nissan, Mercury, and Buick applications.

Key Features

• EPDM construction for coolant, water, and air service
• Factory-molded shape for smaller, tighter-fitting engine compartments
• 16 mm (0.62 in) inside diameter at both ends
• Centerline length: 15.4 in (391 mm)
• Approved for marine applications
• OE-style molded heater hose design

Product Details

The Gates Molded Heater Hose line is built around factory-shaped routing for vehicles that need a formed hose rather than a universal straight section. Part number 18704 follows the molded profile needed to connect heater and coolant passages cleanly, helping maintain proper hose routing in confined spaces. This hose is listed for applications such as the 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse heater inlet and heater outlet, as well as select Mitsubishi Galant, Pontiac Sunbird, Nissan Sentra, Nissan Pulsar NX, Mercury Tracer, and Buick Skyhawk heater hose positions.

This part cross-references Dayco 87620 for the same application.

Common Uses

• Replacing a cracked or leaking heater hose in the cooling system
• Restoring proper coolant flow to the heater core circuit
• Replacing a hose with collapsed bends or poor routing
• Addressing coolant seepage at molded hose sections
• Servicing heater inlet, heater outlet, and heater-to-pipe connections

Installation Notes and Tips

• Verify the vehicle’s heater hose position before ordering, since fitment varies by year, make, model, and location.
• Match the molded shape and centerline length to the original hose routing.
• Inspect clamps, pipe ends, and adjacent coolant lines before installation.
• Confirm the 16 mm inside diameter matches both connection points.
• Use the vehicle’s cooling system service procedure after installation to restore proper coolant level and circulation.

Quality Assurance

Gates manufactures this molded heater hose as an OE-style replacement for applications that require factory-form routing and EPDM hose construction. Gates 18704 is built for direct replacement use in confirmed fitments, including 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, select Mitsubishi Galant, and other listed heater hose applications.