Hose Clamps & Brackets

Does your intercooler hose blow off under full boost, or is coolant dripping from a joint that otherwise seems tight? Clamps and brackets keep hoses and lines secure and sealed, and we have gathered T-bolt clamps, worm gear clamps and spring-loaded clamps for charge air, coolant and AN lines – for you who are building something new or maintaining an existing project.

Three clamp types, each with its own strength

Worm gear clamps are tightened with a screw that pulls the band together and cover a wide range – e.g. the Torque Solution Worm Gear Clamp from 2.5 to 3.5 inches. T-bolt clamps have a smooth band and a bolt, which typically distributes pressure more evenly and gives a firmer grip at high boost. Spring-loaded clamps such as the Turbosmart Turbo-Seal follow the hose as it expands and contracts with temperature, so clamping force is kept more constant. For AN lines there are brackets such as the Fragola -6AN Clamp, which hold the line in place.

How to choose a hose clamp

Several factors determine the choice:

• Diameter: measure the outer diameter of the hose while it is fitted on the pipe, and choose a clamp where the measurement falls in the middle of its range.
• Load: pressure, temperature and hose material determine which type will hold up in your particular system.
• Hose type: perforated bands can cut into silicone hoses, while a smooth band is typically gentler on them.
• Quantity: several worm gear clamps are available in 10-packs for when a whole project needs to be assembled.

If you need new hoses, you will find them under hoses, lines and tubing, and connectors for AN systems are under fittings and plugs.

Installation and maintenance

Place the clamp behind the pipe's bead, if the pipe has one, so the hose cannot slip off under boost, and tighten according to the manufacturer's instructions – overtightening can damage the hose. After the first heat cycles the hose may settle, so it may be necessary to retighten standard clamps. For hose kits from do88 there are matching clamps, and Turbosmart offers constant tension clamps in several sizes. Mishimoto, Granatelli Motor Sports and COMP Cams are also among the brands. Plain clamping bands can be found under hose clamps.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between T-bolt clamps and worm gear clamps?

A worm gear clamp is tightened with a screw in a ribbed or perforated band and is easy to adjust. A T-bolt clamp has a smooth band and a bolt, which typically gives more even pressure and a firmer grip on charge air and silicone hoses.

When do spring-loaded clamps make sense?

Where the hose is exposed to large temperature changes, e.g. on coolant and charge air. The spring can compensate as the hose expands and contracts, so clamping force is kept more even. Whether it is the right choice depends on the hose and system.

How tight should a hose clamp be?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific clamp. If it is tightened too hard, the band can cut into the hose or squeeze the silicone out; too loose and the joint can leak. It is a good idea to check again after the first few drives.

Why does the hose blow off even though the clamp is tight?

It can be because the pipe lacks a bead, the clamp is positioned incorrectly, oil makes the surface slippery, or the clamp does not match the hose diameter. Boost pressure and hose material also play a part.