Radiator and heater hose clamps

[Michael J.]

I am slowly working my way through my '66 coupe to replace and fix items for spring judging. The T-3s done, washer works perfectly, seat belt boots in place, etc. Now I have ordered the various clamps for the heater and radiator hoses, but I am concerned. The colorful spring type clamps for the heater hoses look nice, but do they actually work and not leak? Currently I have worm-gear clamps, probably the best and most trouble free, and I hate to change these out if the flimsy looking spring clamps will leak once it gets up to temperature and pressure builds. Any comfort out there from folks who use them?

[Bill I.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

Mike, the spring clamps (Corbin) will work. Bill.

[David C.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

You are more likely to have trouble with the tower clamps on the rad hoses than the spring clamps on heater. The tower clamps like to be put on once and then left alone - you may even have to use some sealant, which I don't like to do. High Tack will work well though - goes on nice and thin versus silicone.

[John H.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

I've always bought my Corbin clamps for my last three cars from Doc Rebuild, and have never had one leak.

[Edward S.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

Corbin clamps pose no problem, in fact when my car is not going to be judged I remove the Tower Clamps and use what I call strap clamps in their place. As someone has already mentioned the Tower Clamps have been known to fail - Twice on a longer trip I had my upper hose clamp let loose, what a mess cleaning the engine compartment. On one trip I was stuck for quite a time until I could repair it, it's also one of the reasons I always travel with a variety of hose clamps. After the second clean up is when I switched and use the Tower Clamps for NCRS judged shows.

[John H.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

If you invest in a good pair of Corbin clamp pliers with swiveling jaws, it makes working with them a lot easier.

[Stuart F.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

I have found that it is always wise to leave a little extra length on the heater hoses so you can cut them down for a good bite the next time you have to take them off - such as to change a battery, etc. It seems the corbins, or most any other type clamp, need a good clean section of hose for a good seal (cut off and discard the previous clamped portion). If the heater core nipple is distorted or the bead is squashed some, then you should use a sealer. In such cases, I use a corbin along with a temporary "strap" clamp (worm drive) for about a week or two, then remove the strap clamp. It some times pays to replace the corbins after a few uses as they seem to lose spring tension.

Stu Fox

[Michael J.]

Re: Radiator and heater hose clamps

Thanks to all for the great info and tips. Cheers.