{"product_id":"gates-18996-hvac-heater-hose","title":"Gates 18996 HVAC Heater Hose - Heater To Pipe-2 or Heater To Thermostat","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview of Gates Molded Heater Hose 18996\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gates Molded Heater Hose 18996 is designed for reliable HVAC system performance in select Ford and Mazda vehicles. Engineered with durable EPDM material, this molded heater hose ensures consistent heat transfer and long service life in automotive heating applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstructed from high-quality EPDM for heat and chemical resistance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMolded design for precise fit and leak prevention\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCenterline length of 24.5 inches (622 mm) for accurate installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInside diameter of 0.62 inches (16 mm) on both ends\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with Ford 626, Mazda MX-6, and Ford Probe models\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDetailed Product Description\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gates Molded Heater Hose 18996 is part of the Molded Heater Hose product line, which focuses on delivering pre-formed hoses that match original equipment specifications. This hose is made from EPDM, a synthetic rubber known for its resistance to heat, ozone, and automotive fluids, making it suitable for HVAC heater core connections. The molded construction ensures a precise shape that fits the HVAC system without the need for additional bending or shaping, reducing installation time and potential leaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith an inside diameter of 0.62 inches (16 mm) on both ends and a centerline length of 24.5 inches (622 mm), this hose is designed to maintain proper coolant flow and temperature control within the heating system. The absence of quick connect fittings and branches simplifies the hose design, focusing on durability and straightforward installation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCompatible Vehicles and Applications\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFord 626 models requiring HVAC heater hose replacement\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMazda MX-6 vehicles with OEM heater hose specifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFord Probe models needing a molded heater hose for HVAC systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReplacement for worn or damaged heater hoses causing coolant leaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for resolving heater core flow issues and maintaining cabin heat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eInstallation Notes and Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure the engine is cool before removing the old heater hose to avoid burns\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVerify hose routing matches the original to prevent kinks or interference\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse proper clamps to secure the hose ends and prevent leaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInspect surrounding components for wear or damage during installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlush the cooling system if contamination or debris is present before installing the new hose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eQuality Assurance and Warranty\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eGates Molded Heater Hose 18996 is manufactured to meet or exceed OEM standards for durability and performance. The EPDM material and molded design contribute to a reliable HVAC hose that withstands typical automotive operating conditions. While specific warranty details are not provided, Gates products generally come with a limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship, ensuring confidence in product quality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gates","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45307118092469,"sku":"BBSC-18996","price":39.23,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/1442\/1173\/files\/ZO_18996_Fro_f0cb7a58-55b7-41d8-a2d8-3f20fc1b46bb.jpg?v=1775145759","url":"https:\/\/www.partcatalog.com\/products\/gates-18996-hvac-heater-hose","provider":"PartCatalog","version":"1.0","type":"link"}