I recently instaled a DirtBound battery tray in my stock 1999 XJ. The site said it was designed for the XJ, but after it was installed i found that it was rubbing up against the radiator hose. I thought since it was an OEM hose and the tray wwas designed for the XJ I was over worried, but today (after a week of installation) now have a leak at the point of contact in my radiator hose. Anyone have a similar issue, or have any recommendations? will likely have to get a new tray and obviously replace the hose.

thanks,

dan

 

When you replace the hose, none of them are really "direct fit."

On that one, if you trim the end back a little, like 1/2" at a time, it will move the hose away from the battery toward the radiator. If you trim the other end, it will move it across the AC compressor.

 

It looks as if the hose also has contact with the battery itself. Is it possible to move the battery further to the rear within the tray?

The hold down bracket appears to be oriented properly, just going by the lettering that is cut into it. You may try reversing it, as it may have more clearance that way.

I would also contact the manufacturer.

 

With my stock tray no matter how much I shove the battery towards the back it looks like it rubs.
Never had a problem but envisioned one.
So I grabbed the same stuff that goes over the AC compressor that comes on the hose when you buy one
from the boneyard.
I also found more to put on the lower radiator hose where I don't like how it is positioned against the steering gear box.

 

I've been looking for more of that plastic covering, but can't find any online. any guesses of what to search for? thanks!

 

@pigeon The battery is as far back as it will go in the tray as the base of the battery is pushed up against the back of the tray. I also tried reversing it, but the design doesn't allow for that unfortunately. I've written eh manufacturer, couldn't imagine this is the first time they're hearing this! thanks!

 

Man boneyards are full of that crap. LOL.
Shouldn't even be charged for it when you grab some. MLOL.
It can be from any car. Just has to be about the same diameter.
Thinking finding an XJ and taking it off that hose from on top of the AC compressor should work.
Be the right diameter at least. EMLOL.

 

X2 on Ralphs post, I have some of that plastic near my battery too as it gets very close.

Also be careful if you try the suggestion of cutting back the new hose slightly. IIRC the hose is either flaired out to fit on the rad, and or the bend is very close to the rad so you won't get much pull on the pipe before it want to curve. If that last bit makes any sense, not sure how else to word it.

 

I agree you need to trim the hose to fit right .