Heater hose/clamp replacement

[KFZJ80]

Novice mechanic here but found a small coolant leak on my '96 fzj80. See below. Is the hose bad or can i just adjust the clamp? Seems like the hose slipped a bit. Any advice on how to get back here by the firewall to work on it? It's a pretty tight space. Previous owner did a bypass on the rear heater.

 

[amgraham]

Come at the clamp from the top with some needle nose pliers. You can try to adjust it and see if it fixes the leak but I would take it off, clean the crusty stuff off that metal pipe, and either put the hose back on if it seems good or replace it because it's cheap insurance. I hate the spring clamps so I just went with normal hose clamps.

 

[jaymar]

Lay a sheet of half-inch or better plywood across the engine bay, from front to that metal lip at the top of the engine bay/firewall. Should keep you off the important stuff (but test it). Better if you have an ARB up front and a few short 2x4s to wedge over it/under board.

 

[Tedward]

Needle nose angled pliers will make things like that SO much easier. Short 45 degree angle decent quality needle nose pliers.
As mentioned, pull it off, clean pipe, use a little lube and push wiggle it back on. Those clamps, some dont like em, some do. Personally, I prefer em. You be the Decider!

 

[Comet]

Angled pliers are the ticket. I park close to my porch, step up on a short step ladder, take off my belt and any scratchy things, lean over the side, and “plank” with my feet stabilizing me from the porch. Sounds stupid but it is surprisingly effective.

 

[fj80pb]

If you have a leak there, perhaps you want to check the PHH also. If it hasn't been replaced yet, being a 96', you want to do it ASAP. It's good insurance and peace of mind IMO.
FWIW, a few years a go I did the by-pass with Gate's green stripe and CT clamps. I just replaced it last month as PM-an easy peasy deal with the by-pass in place.
Good luck!
Cheers!