All stainless worm drive hose clamps is what I use.  If there is a tail you can simply cut it off and dress the sharp edge.  You could use spring lock clamps if you can find them in the right size.  That's what most OEM hose clamps are.  They get removed and tossed in the trash by mechanics who don't want to mess with them.  I find if you have the right tool they aren't that big a deal to take on and off. 

BobE wrote:

You may want to consider Gates “Power Grip Clamps”; it is a heat shrink tubing. 

 
I ran across those a while back.  Never knew they existed.  Anyone have fist hand experience using them?

I use the Gates power grip clamps on all hot hose connections. Simple installation: place over hose, hit with a heat gun, start the car, turn on the heater and let car reach full operating temperature. 

I was initially concerned because the lower radiator hose leaked a little until the car reached full operating temperature, then no more leaks.

Last edited by boss347convertible (3/29/2023 10:45 AM)

Man I've agonized over hose clamps a bit too much. Like you I hate the worm drive clamps the heat shrink Gates is an awesome idea, but I do not like the single use aspect. So I decided on these Gates "constant tension" clamps https://www.gates.com/us/en/fluid-power/engine-hose/hose-clamps-and-couplings.p.7408-000000-000002.html

Bad thing is I could only find them in box quantity and the smaller ones are pretty bulky. I've also had a look at McMaster Carr as they have all sorts of clamps, again though they want you to buy box quantity.



 

There are lots of versions of DIY wire clamp videos on YouTube.  Have you ever looked at any of these?  If so, what are your thoughts?  The video below is just an example I just pulled from YouTube.  It is interesting but I think there are better tools available.



 

I like the Ford original clamps, but the current reproduction available are a joke, prone to failure when torqued.

I would not find shrink type clamps very practical, as they do get removed and replaced over the years a lot more than you would think.

Rudi wrote:

After a bit of searching I found some stainless steel “ T “ bolt clamps that are heater hose size I think I will order some.
They have a good selection of sizes starting at .670” to .750”

My raw heater hose measures .900". I bought some t-bolt clamps but the adjusting range is very small. They would not work. I was not able to find an adjustment range that worked for me.

Last edited by KeithP (3/29/2023 9:49 PM)

For your time wasting, viewing pleasure:



 

Rufus68 wrote:

For your time wasting, viewing pleasure:



 

 Very interesting video. The Breeze clamps held up very well, as they are ones that I have used in many aviation applications over the years. They were used mainly in non pressurized ducting, such as cooling or heating air ducts and not in fluid pressure applications.

Last edited by Ron68 (3/30/2023 12:57 PM)

Very good video presentation.  I would say that for automotive coolant, and even EFI, hose applications any of these clamps would work just fine.  The worst performing clamp started leaking at like 250psi, which well above the pressure the coolant and EFI would be subjected.  

Interesting points though I took his post to refer to the needs of our Mustangs so his remarks work.

I ended up buying these clamps. Yes, the clamp on the right!