C-2 Radiator Clamp Question

[Edward S.]

I am hoping to reuse two original clamps on my new upper hose at the radiator top and thermostat fillneck of my '66 327/300. They loosened up enough to get them off the old hose o.k. but I can't seem to get them to expand enough to make them fit easily over the new hose. Am I missing something? I don't want to overdo it and possibly break one. Shouldn't they slide when the screw is backed off? I tried a little WD 40 and it still did not break loose. I checked the archives and did not see anything on point so it made me wonder what's up?

Thanks.

Ed S

[Ara G.]

Re: C-2 Radiator Clamp Question

Ed,
Be careful...but use your two index fingers and pull the clamp apart gently.....gently....work each side back and forth...Are the clamps close to fitting over the hose? If so, use some soap and water to ease it over the hose....I would put some gasket sealer on the thermostat housing end and the inside of the hose end to ensure a water tight seal....as the original clamps may not tighten down enough to prevent a slight leak...The sealant is the trick...Good luck and let us know how it goes...ARA

[Edward S.]

Re: C-2 Radiator Clamp Question

Thanks for the tip. Yes, they are close to fitting. I will try the soap and water and use a little sealer too.

[Edward S.]

Re: C-2 Radiator Clamp Question

I tried to get the clamps a little more open without success. Even with the soap and water it was too tight. I will continue to work on the clamps. In the interim, went with regular clamps to get the car up and running. Thermostat housing and hose are dry with no leaks. Used a thin coat of sealant on the gasket and hose.

Thanks.