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Multiple Corbin clamp problems and my
solution:
- Corbin clamps are not readily available over the counter at
almost all parts houses.
- Corbin clamps are supposed to be single time use. Never
reused.
- We home mechanics can't keep quantities on hand.
- The parts house Corbin hose clamp tools will not squeeze
the Corbin clamp tightly enough to remove it over a swollen hose. I keep
my air grinder handy for Corbin removal! The professional grade Corbin
tools are better than the cheapies but not ideal.
- There is no visual way of knowing a Corbin is properly sized
to the need at hand. They are not labeled and they come in a variety of
color finishes today with no code explanation of what they are intended to
fit. Once out of the packaging they are all guesses as to what they will
hold tight.
- When John Lazenby and I stocked some Corbins and
advertised them to the 300 clubs, we received one order in several
years.
My solution once was to use quality screw down hose clamps
always available at the parts houses. Those available in name brands
today have slipped in quality compared to what they were over the
years. And the cheaper ones are absolute junk.
Norma /Torro hose clamps are used in all high end production
cars built in the world from Audi to Mercedes, BMW, Rolls, Jaguar, Ferrari,
Lambo, etc., etc. The only US car I'm aware of using them from the
factory is the Holden-based Pontiac GTO. Read fully about them here:
http://www.abaofamerica.com/PDF/NORMA-Torro.pdf
They say "Norma" and have a millimeter sizing range on
them.
In my mind Norma clamps are vastly superior to our common
screw drive or Corbin clamps. I have never had one strip or fail and that
includes occasional extremely abusive non-automotive applications. Yes,
they cost a little more. What is an engine worth?
My 300F Special lost a Corbin heater hose when it was two
years old probably because it had been off and reinstalled.
That destroyed the car's original cylinder heads and caused a
partial motor rebuild. I can be an absolute stickler for 100% authenticity
and appreciate those who adhere to that standard but I have NO Corbin
clamps on any vehicle I own.
Wayne
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