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  #1  
Old 01-06-2002, 11:36 AM
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Tightening radiator hoses...how tight is tight?

I have minor coolant leaks from the radiator hoses, the top hose and the small hose, on the top corner. I know they are to be "screw-driver tight", but how tight is that? I consider mine tight but it still have annoying minor leaks. And I don't want to tighten it too far that would cause premature factures.

Hoses and radiator are both 10 months old, after the neck broke...

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Old 01-06-2002, 03:07 PM
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The new radiator should have the alluminum insert that will help prevent the crack in the radiator. I use a 7mm nut driver (or 6mm depending on the clamp) and sench them 'till they don't leak under pressure.
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Old 01-06-2002, 07:00 PM
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What about those CONSTANT PRESSURE CLAMPS? The Japanese cars seem to enjoy using them without any problems. However, these clamps are hard to find at local stores such as Wal-mart, autozone... Actually, I have never seen them at local stores.

My 1995 Honda Accord and 2001 CRV uses them with no problem. My 1987 Pontiac uses the screw-type clamps which I need to tighten them every oil change to prevent small leaks.

Do these constant pressure clamps work better than the traditional clamps which you need to guess how tight is too tight?

Good Luck
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Old 01-06-2002, 09:01 PM
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Thanks for the reply guys.

Unfortunately due to budget I could only afford OEM-compatiable after-market radiator by Nissens, I don't think it has a reinforced neck...

What's Constant Pressure Clamp? Is that the one without screws and loosen with pliers on the tabs, and tightens itself?
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Old 01-07-2002, 01:57 PM
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Yes, the one you use the pliers to slide onto the hose.


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  #6  
Old 01-07-2002, 09:20 PM
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Is the leak coming from the hose end?

Greetings,

You didn't mention whether you changed the hoses out with German made hoses or ones from NAPA or the like. If you look as the car is running, is the leak from the neck or from the hose end? If from the neck I would pull the hose and check for either corrosion build up or a rough spot on the area. If it's leaking from the end of the hose , or the hose rubber, than the hose is at fault. I'd also look at the angle that the hose is at before tightening the clamp. If it's not at a perpendicular angle all the way around the neck area, then you are leaving a space in the hose where it's not making good contact with neck as you tighten it down.

Charles

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