Dreaded '82 YZ250 coolant line routing

[bultaco4ever]

I've got the first year for water cooling...'82 YZ250. Radiator up behind number plate by handlebars. Coolant was directed down the steering stem, through the frame and down to the engine. The seals in the steering stem were prone to failure. This was a crappy design from the word...go. Mine is starting to weep coolant. I've heard that it was best to by pass the steering head and route the coolant lines around the steering stem. Anyone have tips for me? What type fittings to use? Coolant hose? Modifying number plate? Anything?

 

[Sandyr]

I have the same issue with a 125. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Sandy

 

[bultaco4ever]

Well, I have removed the number plate and the front fender. That exposes the bottom hose to the radiator. I'm going to wing it and try some brass elbows and suitable radiator hose. I have received no recommendations from anyone yet.

 

[Sandyr]

My plan is the same. I hope to get at this in the next few days. I'll let you know how it goes.
Sandy

 

[bultaco4ever]

Well, I've come up with other projects that kept me from working on this coolant line re-route job. I still need a best practice idea. Who's got my fix?