Coolant routing for V8 conversion, Which is best??? Options

[Dr. Roger]

Hello all,
I'm getting to the point where I need to start thinking about which route to go with plumbing for water to and from the radiator.
I've seen rubber and steel. Black pipe (heavy) and copper.
Most going below the floor pan.

Are there any other options?
Much thanks.

[neo914-6]

Roger,

It's personal preference, there are advantages and disadvantages to each material and route. Production cars are designed to use metal tubing with short rubber hoses. Since we are adapting, bare rubber hose or copper/steel/aluminum tubing, or sstl braided hose with AN fittings have been used. Routing under the rockers or down the tunnel are more protected but you have to cut and fab more. You could also leak water inside the cabin if routed inside. The rubber down the center is the least fab oriented and has the least amount of joints. It also begs the question if there was enough damage to rupture the hose, you've got more problems than a leaking hose. Whatever you chose, make sure to minimize kinks, leak points, and air pockets...