Center Radiator Retrofit - Base to S Hoses, Thoughts on Best Solution?

[rick3000]

Thanks to everyone for the input.

jsceash, what would you say the difference in diameter between the base and S hose is? I would think clamping the bigger hose down would leak, but you are proof to the contrary.

I am leaning toward having the pipes welded, because it seems like the most robust and least likely to leak option. I originally wanted to ask because I have read about both the Pelican step adapter and the Pedro Y adapter leaking or bursting, but having the pipes welded is a pricey alternative (probably $150-ish, still waiting to get quotes). Leaks do not seem common with the hose fittings, but I am getting tired of having to buy coolant, so anything to avoid any possible leaks.

I wonder what the dealer does when someone comes in with one of the old retrofit kits installed that had the y hose sized for the base hard lines?!