Hoses & Clamps

Hose clamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and each of them have a specific task. The general use clamp uses the slots in the body of the clamp as threads, this works well for coolant hoses.The solid clamp has a nut plate installed on the end of the clamp and is a solid body. These are used for high pressure applications, power steering, transmission, and fuel. The stainless steel one is the best choice for fuel lines. This clamp also comes in a special AC clamp that has a connector to hold two clamps together. There is a new clamp that is a shrink fit for cooling systems gives a very clean look and will work on damaged connectors.There are two types of crimpable clamps that are used for CV boots both work quite well but need a special tool to install. Over the years manufactures have used various clamps to ease installation during build. The worst was the snap ring style that Chrysler used; it was a SOB to remove now there is a special tool for it. Hoses also come in a variety of sizes shapes and materials. Hoses designed for cooling system use should only be used on the cooling system they are not designed to meet any other application. Power steering and transmission for the most part are can be interchanged but fuel is a different hose it must withstand more pressure and chemicals more so in areas where oxygenated fuel is used. Some of the older hoses rated for fuel cannot withstand these fuels.Vacuum hoses including the brake booster hose are also basically the same hose construction except brake hoses must withstand slightly higher in. /Hg and possible brake fluid contamination. . PCV hose must be able to withstand fuel and oil contamination. Of course AC hoses are for AC application only.