Tool for Hose Clamps/Rings

I'm in the process of redoing the 340 in my 70 Cuda and I thought it would be cool when I replaced all the hoses to go with the original style hose clamp/rings.

Well, never having dealt with these before (I have only used the modern screw type hose clamps) I have quickly come to find out they are a real pain in the a** to try to put on. I have tried using channel lock pliers to try to put these things on and it just is not working.

Is there a special tool that you use to get these things on and off?

Here is a picture of the hose clamp/rings that I am talking about.

-Thanks

Corbin clamp pliers like these...
https://www.zoro.com/gearwrench-corbin-s...mp;gclsrc=aw.ds

Napa sells KD corbin hose clamp pliers too.

http://www.sears.com/otc-2-pc-hose-clamp...mp;blockType=G4

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-swivel-ja...mp;blockType=G1

Available at Sears..

Even with proper Corbin tool, can be a bit challenging on some of the hoses.

On my E Body 440, find on the thermostat housing clamp was better to first place the clamp on the housing, then slip the hose into position, then use the tool to expand the clamp over the hose into its proper position. Some tools will not expand clamp enough to get the clamp over the ridge on the housing.

Be careful at the heater end, as these fittings are prone to break off from heater if you have to wrestle too hard to get the hose on and the clamp in position. A shot of dishwashing soap or Wd 40 can help in sliding a brand new hose into position.

Be certain to position them such that you do not end up slicing your forearm or wrist while working on the engine. These pointy edges can be quite sharp and to catch your wrist is something you won't soon forget. I have not yet had the pleasure but every time I look at these clamps keeps me wary.

I dont know how many knuckles I have busted with the damn things...

But the screw on clamps look like hell....

X2 on the KD's. They work well. Two different V cuts that swivel and a good locking mechanism.

You might take a pair of regular pliers & file 2 opposite grooves in the serrated flats at the end. Might save you time/money rather than the corbins

So the channel locks and pliers I use are the wrong tool?

correct, as they just dont secure the ends enough once you compress em/plus bad angle

Been getting by without them for decades...

me too for one or two of em but if I had to do the (14) in the pic I would mod some pliers or get the corbin

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I have the KD tool, have had it for a long long time, carry it in my truck tool pouch for the fuel filter replacement. Tips swivel to all positions which makes tight areas easy.

Yeah, if was using those clamps, having the proper tool would make sense. Fact is though, I usually take those clamps off and replace them with worm gear clamps. I just like them better...

agreed as worm clamps are so common that I am used to em (be sure to get quality ones/no cheapies). I've heard way back that corbins are good cuz they keep a constant tension but I'm sure the worm clamps do to

Yeah.. my worm gear clamps when they leak are always at the worm gear. corbin clamps have a better seal, but are a PITA.

The weak point on worm gears.. You can find better screw type clamps at hydraulic shops that work well....

As pointed out above (in the SK flavor) there are the correct pliers:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-Tools-Hose-Clamp-Slip-Joint-Pliers-HCP48BP-/191901374951

The others are universal and almost dangerous for this type of application (good way to get hurt IMO).

Also, you might look into getting clamps that are one size smaller than what comes in the resto kits. I had trouble with this style of clamp leaking due to the newer style hoses being a bit thinner than the originals. The main problem was at the heater hose connections.

I use these also:

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-6-3-4-in-pliers-slip-joint/p-00945378000P

I've got a factory-made tool like that. Don't know the manufacturer. There are no serrations in the jaws, just grooves to hold the clamp.

Thanks everyone. I went to NAPA and bought their tool. It is nice and says Made in USA. What I like about it is that it locks so once you press the straight ends of the hose clamp together with the tool it locks in place and will hold it until you release the tension with a lever on the tool.

Be certain to wear safety glasses and nothing of value about. These rings when compressed will at times beat to their own drummer.

Noted! I need some better ones for the braided steel fuel lines as I need the extra clamping for the barbed fittings as they ain't really the correct ones for this app

It's a funny world out there. The morning after posting this I stopped at a yard sale. What was waiting for me there? Yep, a proper set of locking hose clamp pliers. Old, but of good quality and in good condition. They are in my toolbox now and I'm $2 lighter in the wallet.

I figure they came to me because I posted that I did not need them.

I don't need to win the lottery...

Karma brother!