Q: What Are Hose Clamps?

Hose clamps are used to firmly attach an engine hose to a connection point. The most common type of hose clamps are flat, metal bands that use a worm screw inside of a buckle. The loose end of the band is inserted into the buckle and the worm screw draws the band through the buckle and tightens the band around the hose. This is done so that there is no pressure loss or coolant loss from the cooling system.

Other types of hose clamps include those that are made of wire. Single wire clamps are made of spring steel that have an elastic effect. You compress the ends of the clamp to loosen the clamp. The clamp automatically tightens when you release the clamp ends. One type of double wire hose clamp works in the same fashion as the single wire hose clamp.

Another double wire hose clamp uses a screw and nut assembly that provides the means to tighten or loosen the clamp.

Hose clamps typically don’t fail, but they do need to be replaced whenever your hoses are serviced. If you need any assistance with this, a qualified mechanic can replace your vehicle’s hoses at your own convenience.