I was thinking about swapping out my Vacuum lines with silicone lines on the wipers and headlights on my 72 C3. There are a few issues with the existing lines, it looks like the last owner was trying to fix the wipers and just left parts hanging and hoses disconnected. I found the wiper door solenoid hanging down behind the dash and hoses disconnected.
Has anyone done this kind of swap? Any comments? Pro’s & cons? would be much appreciated.
You can even get them in colours that match your car ! Seems like a good idea and very reasonable cost.
For a C3 Corvette (model years 1968-1982), silicone vacuum line kits are available that are custom cut and ready to install. These kits upgrade the original rubber vacuum lines to premium high-temperature silicone hoses, which resist cracking, fading, and breakdown caused by gas, oil, and automotive chemicals. The silicone lines also have a shiny, show-ready finish that can be color-matched or contrasted with the vehicle’s engine or body color. Common colors available include red, blue, black, yellow, orange, green, white, and gunmetal. These kits typically include vacuum lines for the distributor, automatic transmission, brake booster, PCV, and headlight systems.
The silicone vacuum line kits are designed specifically for modified small or big block engines in C3 Corvettes and come pre-cut to length for convenience. Installation requires only basic hand tools. Silicone hoses provide improved durability and appearance compared to original rubber hoses, making them popular for restoration and show purposes.
Popular sources for these kits include Eckler’s Corvette, Corvette Central, Corvette Depot, and Corvette Store Online. The kits range in price around $59.99 and up. Enthusiasts have also found that silicone hoses slide easily over fittings, sometimes with a bit of silicone spray to lubricate, making installation smoother. Adjustments to hose length after installation are easy thanks to the flexibility of silicone tubing.
If you own a 1971 or early 70s C3 Corvette, replacing vacuum lines for vacuum-operated parts such as windshield wiper door covers and headlights with silicone hose kits is a commonly recommended upgrade for both reliability and appearance.
In summary, silicone vacuum lines for the C3 Corvette provide:
• Custom pre-cut kits for 1968-1982 C3 models
• High-temp, oil- and chemical-resistant silicone construction
• Multiple vibrant color options for engine bay styling
• Coverage for distributor, trans, brake booster, PCV, and headlights
• Easy installation with basic tools and better durability than factory rubber lines
This upgrade is widely supported in Corvette restoration and performance communities for enhancing both function and show-quality underhood appearance.
