Nagging question on Clamps

[blue62]

Spring type clamps are typically made from "spring steel" spring steel does not wear out so there is really no reason to replace them other then if there is some sort of damage to them.
I always reuse my flat spring type clamps. The round wire type I do not care for and usually replace them. I replace the round wire type simply because I find them hard to work with.

[Frodo]

Originally Posted by blue62

Spring type clamps are typically made from "spring steel" spring steel does not wear out so there is really no reason to replace them other then if there is some sort of damage to them.
I always reuse my flat spring type clamps. The round wire type I do not care for and usually replace them. I replace the round wire type simply because I find them hard to work with.

That's really helpful, thanks.

So when you replace the round wire type, where do you obtain replacements? Online? Or do AZ, Advanced Auto, O'Reilly, etc just have drawers full of generic clamps that can be used? (I don't know, sounds like you've been around for a while...maybe YOU have drawers full of various generic clamps )

And, if you were doing the coolant tank replacement, with everything so difficult to access, would you still use that approach? (ie reusing the flat spring type?) I just don't want to have to access those clamps twice.

I don't know—maybe you have done the coolant tank. From what I've seen in DIY pictures, it looks like the connections are all that type, the flat spring ones. Did anyone encounter any of the round wire ones in doing their coolant tank?

[blue62]

Originally Posted by Frodo

That's really helpful, thanks.

So when you replace the round wire type, where do you obtain replacements? Online? Or do AZ, Advanced Auto, O'Reilly, etc just have drawers full of generic clamps that can be used? (I don't know, sounds like you've been around for a while...maybe YOU have drawers full of various generic clamps )

And, if you were doing the coolant tank replacement, with everything so difficult to access, would you still use that approach? (ie reusing the flat spring type?) I just don't want to have to access those clamps twice.

I don't know—maybe you have done the coolant tank. From what I've seen in DIY pictures, it looks like the connections are all that type, the flat spring ones. Did anyone encounter any of the round wire ones in doing their coolant tank?

For replacement clamps any auto parts store should have them. Also Ace hardware carries a small selection.
Another place is any kind of farm equipment supply store.

Yes I have replaced the coolant tank on my 2000-S...... about two years ago.
I reused all the clamps with no issues. They are the flat spring type.
If you have access to a lift that will be the best bet.
It will give you access from above and below.
That is how I did it.
I removed the triangle plate that ties the rear suspension together.
that will give you greater access from below.
Many people on the forum seem to have an issue replacing the triangle plate.
But I think they approach the problem incorrectly it is not really an issue.

You can get to one clamp from the engine bay.
a few from underneath
The remainder by pulling the tank into the trunk area.

If you have an issue just post here on the forum we will get you sorted out.

[Jgkram]

I reuse mine and no problems. I dont' think the metal clamps have as much danger of losing their force as the rubber tubes becoming brittle or splitting and causing leaks. When you do replace the tank be sure to check you tubes carefully. I pulled all of mine and inspected them thoroughly and reconditioned them. Again, no issues in almost a year after replacing the coolant tank.

[Frodo]

Originally Posted by Jgkram

I pulled all of mine and inspected them thoroughly and reconditioned them. Again, no issues in almost a year after replacing the coolant tank.

That's good to know. What's involved in reconditioning them?

[Frodo]

Originally Posted by blue62

Another place is any kind of farm equipment supply store.

Hadn't thought of that—we do have Tractor Supply around here.

Originally Posted by blue62

Many people on the forum seem to have an issue replacing the triangle plate.
But I think they approach the problem incorrectly it is not really an issue.

My son helped me figure out the solution to that problem—a couple of carpenter clamps in series did the trick.

Originally Posted by blue62

If you have an issue just post here on the forum we will get you sorted out.

Thanks Blue!