I see a lot of cars (all makes) with Red heater hoses. Did the factory ever use Red? Is it just a color preference for some people or is there another reason? I've always wondered.

 

HemmingsMotor Mag has and advertisment for 75 Olds 350 New might help you Andy[IMG][/IMG]

 

I don't know this to be factual, but if I were to venture a guess, it is because whatever auto parts store that the vehicle owner acquired his heater hose from, probably stocked red instead of black. I think this is an aftermarket item, I don't believe cars came from the assembly line this way. Maybe Joe can give us his perspective.

 

I've seen lots of red aftermarket heater hose, but none from GM.

 

x2...

 

I've had around 20 new GM autos since 1968. none had hoses of any color but black.

I kept standard heater hose in black and premium hose in red

 

So in the aftermarket the Red were considered better than the Black?

 

not necessarily. there are cheap hoses in both colors, just as there are premium in black. just go with a brand name, Dayco, Gates, Goodyear, etc

 

Thanks. I was just curious. I have always preferred the Black but some used cars I've bought in the past have had Red.

 

No, just more colorful.

 

My '65 J1 has red hoses. I like them just fine. But then I'm not a date-coded spark plug wire kinda guy.

 

that's what it's all about.