I was doing fluid checks this AM and noticed that the long radiator hose (comes from the bottom of the radiator) was collapsed. I've checked it before when the engine has been running and the hose seemed firm and not mushy. My assumption is to replace rather than be sorry or am I overly concerned?

 

Normally a sign of a sticky thermostat..... Stuck shut.... So as the engine cools the pressure/water reduces causing the hose to collapse..... Take it out and poor boiling water on to it and see if it opens, should do quite quickly, if to you need to replace it

 

Had the thermostat replaced about 2 months ago. I've ordered an alloy thermostat housing to replace the plastic one and will have it checked when it arrives. Thanks for your assistance.

 

Dave when I replaced the tower I also replaced the thermostat, top,bottom radiator hose and the short thats attached to the tower. I also had a hose that started to collapse and not knowing the age of the hoses it was the safe thing to do. When the hose were removed they were mushy and soft. The cost of the project was around $200 for parts and shipping. It also agreat time to flush the radiator. Jim