I created a simple fix for those of you who don't want a non stock looking valve in the heater hose.

I purchased a 5/8 inch dowel rod. Cut a section to about 3 inches long. Pull the heater hose off the water pump and grind the last 1/2 inch of the dowel rod down to fit snugly in the hole in the water pump fitting, blocking the water output. I put a dab of silicon seal on the ridge where the dowel rod goes into the water pump fitting.

The 5/8 dowel rod OD fits snugly into the heater hose, 5/8 inch ID. Insert the small, ground down, end snugly into the water pump fitting and then slide the hose onto the water pump fitting. The hose is sliding over both the dowel rod and the water pump fitting.

Put a clamp snugly over the hose on the fitting like normal and another clamp right behind it to hold the dowel rod securely in place. Tighten both clamps.

Bam.... $3.50. No leaks. No heat. Looks stock.

In the winter if you want to remove it, remove the clamp closest to the water pump leaving the clamp holding the dowel rod. Pull the hose off the water pump and drill a small pilot hole in the dowel rod and insert a wood screw. Remove the clamp holding the dowel rod in the hose and pull the dowel out with channel locks.


Chuck

Chuck B
You got me thinking.... :eek: .

What a great idea! Block the water flow and maintain stock look. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

I however, was concerned with putting a piece of wood in the system. I was worried about the wood breaking down in the heat/chemical environment. I did take your basic approach but instead used a nipple from a water pump inlet. Cut off the threaded end, inserted a plastic cap in the hole (used a little silicone to seal), inserted it into the hose with the flared end out, and inserted back onto water pump.
The plastic cap is sandwiched between the two pieces, the flared end keeps the "plug" from moving further into the hose, no second clamp was required.
Thanks for inspiring my creativity. I am not trying to one up you, just providing another approach.