I used a couple of strips of plastic instead of buying high dollar hose clamps to prevent hose extrusion by the clamps.
I used a couple of strips of plastic instead of buying high dollar hose clamps to prevent hose extrusion by the clamps.
I'd only use this on really soft hose. There is a good chance that this will allow a small leak due to the low-tension areas at the ends of the plastic strips.
GM found that a good percentage of Dexcool problems were due to worm clamps that would be able to seal coolant, but allow a small amount of air in when the system was under vacuum. Once I learned that, I did note that most Dexcool "problem cars" were ones where someone had replaced the full-circle spring clamps with worm clamps, or had moved them from their original positions on the hoses.
In reply to Pete. (l33t FS) :
Pete, my intent was for the ends to touch when the clamps are tightened, someone cut them a little short....if they leak I will make longer ones....or buy those pricey clamps
I have a friend who cooked an expensive motor by declining to buy the proper clamps. He literally melted the aluminum out of the head. The correct clamps are not that expensive. Anyway, why not just use rubber? Not as flashy but been keeping the coolant in motors for over a century.
So what are the correct clamps? I'm getting ready to replace all the water hoses on the 2000 Miata I just bought so this is a timely discussion.
And riddle me this: Why is it every time I type in the word "Miata" the spell checker says its misspelled?
I'm in for the answer - I've been using these after discovering them on a Cannondale ATV I own (doesn't run currently but not cause of the hose clamps)
https://www.amazon.com/Oetiker-Stainless-Steel-Stepless-Clamp/dp/B00AIZBFDI?th=1
When I can I also try to pick up spare OEM spring clamps at the JY but sizes tend to be all over the place.
I've also found intercooler T-bolt clamps to work nicely if there's room for them and I have random spares from JY trips and replacing parts on my 7.3 powerstroke. Gotta be careful you don't tighten them too much though - they are probably overkill but still better than a cheap worm gear clamp IMO.
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