Gates Windshield Washer & Vacuum Hose 5/32" ID x 50 ft — Flexible Non‑Reinforced Automotive Tubing

Gates 27042 is a 50-foot, non-reinforced windshield washer and vacuum hose with a 5/32" inner diameter engineered for flexible, long-lasting service around the engine bay.

This hose replaces standard PVC lines for windshield and headlight washers, links vacuum-operated accessories, and routes overflow or rainwater away from critical areas. Built to withstand automotive under-hood stressors, it delivers a balance of flexibility and resistance so you can cut, route, and attach the exact lengths you need without frequent replacements.

What jobs can I use this Gates tubing for?

The Gates 27042 performs multiple functions in passenger vehicles and light trucks. It’s commonly used for windshield and headlight washer lines, vacuum connections for accessories, and drain or overflow routing where a small-diameter hose is appropriate.

• Windshield and headlight washer feed lines
• Vacuum lines for accessory actuators and sensors
• Radiator overflow or small drainage runs
• General small-diameter fluid routing in automotive repair

How well does it tolerate heat, chemicals, and engine conditions?

This hose is formulated to resist heat, ozone, coolant exposure, and mechanical kinking typical under the hood. Its operating temperature range is broad, making it suitable for cold starts and hot engine bays without becoming brittle or softening dangerously.

• Temperature range: -40°F to +257°F (-40°C to +125°C)
• Resists ozone and common automotive coolants
• Designed to retain flexibility for easier routing and cleaning

How easy is it to install and adapt to different vehicles?

The non-reinforced construction stays pliable for straightforward cutting and fitting; it accepts standard 3/16" nipples and clamps for secure connections. The 50-foot roll provides ample length for multiple repairs or complex routing, and the material remains easy to work with even in cold temperatures.

• Supplied as a 50-foot length for multiple uses
• Inner diameter: 5/32" (fits typical washer nozzles and vacuum fittings)
• Compatible with 3/16" nipples and standard small hose clamps

What technical standards and packaging details should I know?

Gates designs this hose to meet relevant SAE specifications that detail material performance for automotive vacuum and washer tubing. It ships in a reusable, recyclable package intended for convenient storage and retail display.

• Meets SAE J1037 and J942b specifications
• Non-reinforced windshield washer & vacuum hose: 5/32" x 5/32" x 50 ft.
• Packaged for self-service display; reusable and recyclable packaging

Who is this for: This Gates 27042 hose is suited to mechanics, restoration enthusiasts, fleet maintenance teams, and DIY motorists who need reliable small-diameter tubing that tolerates engine heat and chemicals. If you replace cracked PVC lines, install or service washer systems, or route small vacuum and drain lines, this product gives you a durable, easy-to-cut option with enough length for multiple projects.