Corbin clamps

[Jim B.]

I am attempting to restore a 55, I know many year cars used corbin clamps. All my fittings seem to be round and have no major problems, but I will bet almost all the connections leak. Has anyone else had this problem and if so is there a solution other than newer style clamps? Also my heater shut off valve leaks at the jam nut, is there a way to stop this leak? I purchased my hoses from Grossmueller. I have changed the clamps once to no avail. HELP!!

I also had the transmission rebuilt and it leaks, suggestions?

Roy Braatz has been great help in my restoration but I am afraid to keep bothering him.

Jim Benedict
#5998

[Eric J.]

Re: Corbin clamps

Jim, What Lb rating is your radiator cap? Should be a 4lb. If greater then there will be more pressure build up. Those Corbins don't like much more then 4 Eric

[Roy B.]

Re: Corbin clamps

The real original pressure cap is #549-7lb which I use not 4lb. That's for those sissy 53-54's, were talking a BIG V8 here. I have Corbin clamps every where _no leaks . Try cleaning the inside hoses and where they connect ( light sand paper) , some of those corbin clamps that are sold are not correct like so many other parts sold! The wire is thin , original thick.

[Eric J.]

Re: Corbin clamps

Roy, Next I bet you will tell me that the 55's don't use 6 volt starters as either!

I guess I am 2 cylinders short of a real engine in my thinking. Eric

[Roy B.]

Re: Corbin clamps

That's right! JUST KIDDING I'v had many 54's , this is my new 6 banger

[Rob Dame]

Re: Corbin clamps

Clean inside the hose and the fitting then put a little black RTV on both. Let the clamp set-up overnight. That should take care of the clamp leaks. Don't know about the hot water valve leak. The trans will leak if you let it sit. Best thing to do is drive it once a week or so.

[John H.]

Re: Corbin clamps

I've used Corbin clamps from Doc Rebuild on my cars for years, and have never had a leak; his appear to be made from thicker wire stock than others I've seen.

[Michael H.]

Re: Corbin clamps

I installed a set of new original Corbin clamps on my 66 about 23 years ago. Never had any leaks. (Still have the same heater hoses) I don't remember these clamps leaked on new cars in the 60's.

Corbin called them; "the original self tightening clamp".

[John H.]

Re: Corbin clamps

Most modern cars still use the same technology for radiator hose clamps, but they're made from flat stock instead of round wire; they don't lose clamping force as the hose wall thickness compresses like screw or tower clamps do, and are designed with built-in stops so they can't be opened too far during installation.