Hi,
Is it acceptable to reuse the spring type hose clamps on the top/bottom radiator hoses? I have the correct tool to open/close them etc.

If not, I can get replacement clamps for the upper rad. hose OK but it seems the lower 53mm is no longer available.

What is considered best practice these days with radiator hose clamps?
I've read others saying that screw-clamp 'Jubilee' type can crush the plastic rad. pipes. Is the 'constant tension' type to be preferred?

Many thanks
Andrew

 

you can reuse the original type clamps; i have for years on many different cars. most do not realize how little clamping force is needed to seal the hose to the neck. in fact most over tighten the Jubilee clamps. in plumbing work there is actually a special tool which limits torque to no more than ten ft lbs. with plastic it is not so much of a problem, but most leaking issues that people try to resolve with over tightening are due to the metal necks having corrosion bumps which need to be ground and polished off. you will be fine reusing the clamps. they can also be easily re plated for the restoration level.

 

+1 on Cor's comments

 

Thanks guys.

 

The reason Jaguar uses them is because they are 'self-tightening'. As the hoses 'cold-flow', the clamps spring tighter.

bob