Maintenance Tip: Caring for Your Silicone Hoses
Keep Your Build Tight, Clean & Leak-Free
When you invest in high-quality silicone hoses, you’re not just buying parts—you’re investing in the performance, reliability, and longevity of your ride. At FTF, we know how critical proper upkeep is when it comes to components that handle heat, pressure, and constant movement.
Here’s how to get the most out of your silicone hoses and keep your engine bay looking fresh and functional.
Why Silicone Hoses?
Silicone hoses are popular in performance builds for good reason:
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Superior heat resistance
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Flexible yet durable
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Resistant to cracking, hardening, and ageing
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Ideal for coolant, turbo, and vacuum systems
But even the best hoses need some love.
Cleaning Your Silicone Hoses
Keeping your hoses clean doesn’t just improve appearance—it also helps you spot problems early.
What You’ll Need:
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Mild soap (no harsh chemicals or solvents)
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Warm water
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Microfiber cloth or soft sponge
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Soft-bristled brush for stubborn grime
Steps:
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Let the engine cool completely before working in the bay.
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Gently wipe down the hoses with soapy water.
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Use a soft brush if dirt or oil buildup is present.
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Rinse with clean water and dry with a microfiber towel.
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(Optional) Apply a silicone-safe protectant to give that clean, matte finish.
Avoid: Harsh degreasers, petrol-based cleaners, or abrasive pads—they can degrade the outer layer or reduce flexibility over time.
Check for Signs of Wear
Even premium silicone hoses can wear under stress. Regular checks can prevent sudden failures:
What to Look For:
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Bulging or ballooning: A sign of internal failure or too much pressure
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Loose clamps or fittings: Can lead to leaks or slippage under boost
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Cracks or dry spots: Rare but can occur with extreme heat or old age
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Oil contamination: Can weaken certain silicone compounds over time
Pro Tip: Always inspect hoses during routine oil changes or coolant top-ups.
When to Replace
If you spot any of the signs above, or if your hoses have been installed for over 5 years of daily driving or 3+ years of track abuse, it may be time to replace them. Performance and safety come first.
FTF stocks high-quality silicone hoses, couplers, reducers, and clamps for builds of all kinds — whether you're chasing turbo boost or just want to keep coolant flowing cleanly.
Need Replacements or Upgrades?
We’ve got you covered.
Various diameters, angles & colours
T-bolt clamps, joiners & reducers
Built to handle pressure, heat & serious driving
Final Thought:
Take care of your hoses, and they’ll take care of your build. A few minutes of maintenance now can save you a blown line, a boost leak, or worse, later.