Hose Clamps

Which clamp keeps the hose sealed when boost pressure rises and the engine cycles between cold and hot? This category contains hose clamps for turbo, intercooler, radiator and vacuum hoses. They are for you if you are replacing hoses, building new piping or want to stop small leaks in your project.

Three types of hose clamps

Worm drive clamps with a screw thread cover a wide range, e.g. 2.5-3.5 inches, and are typically used on coolant and air hoses with moderate pressure. T-bolt clamps have a wider band and a bolt that tightens more evenly. This can provide a better seal on silicone hoses under boost pressure. Constant tension clamps, e.g. Turbosmart's Turbo-Seal clamps, have springs that can follow along as the hose and pipe expand and contract with temperature changes.

How to choose the right clamp

• Diameter: Measure the outside diameter of the hose with the hose fitted on the pipe, and choose a clamp where the measurement falls within the clamp's range.
• Pressure and temperature: The pressure side after the turbo and intercooler puts more load on the clamp than a radiator hose at low pressure.
• Hose type: Silicone is softer than rubber, so a wide, smooth band can be gentler on the hose than a narrow perforated band.
• Kits or individual clamps: do88 offers clamps designed for a specific hose kit, while universal clamps are available individually or in 10-packs.

Installation and re-tightening

Place the clamp close behind the bead on the pipe so the hose cannot slip off. Avoid overtightening, as this can cut into the silicone and cause leaks later. Silicone can settle, so re-tightening after the first few drives can be an advantage. Special clamps for AN fittings are available and sold in pairs. Brands in the category include Mishimoto, COMP Cams and Granatelli Motor Sports. You can find brackets and holders for hoses under hose clamps and brackets.

Frequently asked questions

When is a T-bolt clamp better than a worm drive clamp?

Typically on the pressure side between the turbo, intercooler and intake, where boost pressure can push the hose off. The wide band distributes the pressure evenly. At low pressure, a worm drive clamp can be sufficient.

Why do hose clamps loosen over time?

Silicone and rubber can settle, and temperature changes make the pipe and hose expand and contract. This can reduce clamping force, which you can counteract by re-tightening or using constant tension clamps.

What size hose clamp should I choose?

Measure the outside diameter of the hose while it is fitted on the pipe. Choose a clamp where the measurement falls in the middle of the range and not at the very end, where the clamp can be difficult to tighten correctly.