Coolant tubing

[Rustkolector]

I have been using .375" OD clear flexible plastic tubing (Ace Hardware) for coolant piping connections. At the desired operating temperature of 150-160F, this flexible tubing takes a set, it loses its grip on the piping, and the connections begin to leak. Are there any good looking small commercial clamps available, or has anyone come up with a method of clamping tubing this size?

Jeff

 

[Lakc]

If that is the polyurethane tubing I am thinking of, its only rated to 170 degrees. You can get much better tubing and clamps at Mcmaster. http://www.mcmaster.com

 

[doc1955]

Do you have any shrink fit? That cut into strips if you have the right size works great.

 

[Blogwitch]

You will get much better grip and heat resistance using silicone tubing (model engine fuel tubing), you can obtain it in all sizes. As long as there are no sharp edges on your push on pipe spikes. Sharp edges causes it to tear.

Another thing is that it doesn't take on a 'set' like normal plastic tubing.


Bogs

 

[gbritnell]

Hi Jeff,
Why not make some hose clamps that look to scale by yourself, they're quite easy.
Turn up some rings of brass or stainless, in your case about .015 smaller inside diameter than your tubing O.D. For .375 I would make them with about a .02 wall. Now make some cylindrical pieces about .135 diameter. Tap one side with a 2-56 thread and drill the other side .094. Now silver solder the 2 pieces together. Once soldered, cleaned up and buffed, if you desire, clamp them lightly in the vise and with slitting saw cut them in half. I have made them for my 4 cylinder and Holt engines and they work and look great.
George

 

[doc1955]

Those look really nice George!

 

[Rustkolector]

George,
Thats a good looking clamp. I like it. I'll give it a try.

Jeff