Good that you found the source of the noise and loss of coolant.  While your fixing things, shorten the lower hose at the appropriate  end to stop it from rubbing  and possibly rub through


54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

Good point.  Though if shortening/twisting it isn’t feasible, I think attaching a metal plate with black tape would work ok as well.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA