Loosening and Re-Using Wittek Clamps

[Christopher R.]

What's the trick to loosening and re-using Wittek radiator clamps?

[Mike McKown]

Re: Loosening and Re-Using Wittek Clamps

Loosen the screw. Set the tip of the screwdriver right beside the screw where it threads into the base of the clamp. Bump the handle of the screwdriver with the heel of your hand. You should see the clamp expand. Never pry on one. You'll ruin it.

[John H.]

Re: Loosening and Re-Using Wittek Clamps

You can also use a deep 7/16" socket to tap the tower down gently after loosening the screw; do it gently (and re-tighten it gently), as the reproduction dated clamps pretty much suck (they aren't made by Wittek - they went out of business many years ago).

[Mike McKown]

Yeah, my way is a little brutal

I keep thinking I'm back in the factory. They don't pay extra for "finess time".

[Philip C.]

SAVAGE *NM*

[Mike McKown]

Hi Phil! *NM*

[Philip C.]

Hi Phil! Mike 1st rounds on me next year!!! *NM*

[John H.]

Re: Yeah, my way is a little brutal

Mike -

I re-used the original 37-year-old Wittek tower clamps on my '69 Z/28 when I replaced the radiator hoses, and they worked just fine. Most of the repro dated clamps break the first time you install them due to the cheap screws and crummy band material.