GOOD FIND! The BEST and correct size replacement radiator hose clamps for all PRII

I posted this information on the GEN II forum, bit it would be appropriate for most all Prius and Japanese cars.

I bought several sizes of these clamps and found this one SIZE to be the correct size for most all Japanese car radiator hoses.

I just posted this review on Amazon.com

The correct size for radiator hoses on most all four and six cylinder Japanese cars. THE ONES to BUY!

This is the correct size radiator hose clamp for most Japanese cars form four cylinder to V6 engines.

I used them on a 2003 Toyota Corolla with a 1.8L engine.

After sixteen years of using the OEM hose clamps, I discovered that the hose on the engine input neck of my 3L V6 1998 Mazda was leaking. Apparently the OEM hose clamp did not provide enough spring tension.
This hose clamp is 1-3/8 inch diameter at full closure. It opens all the way to two inches. It worked fine on the 1-7/8 inch hose on the Mazda.

It was a tight fit, but it held better than the OEM clamps.

You want these clamps and NOT the worm drive stainless steel ones, because the worm drive ones have a high "pressure point" just right under the screw that will eventually crack the plastic neck on most all modern radiators. Don't replace the spring clamps with the stainless steel worm drive ones. You will be risking an expensive replacement for a destroyed radiator neck.

I purchased the special hose clamp pliers for these clamps. SAVE YOUR MONEY! The cheap Channel lock type water pump pliers work just fine.

Too bad the descriptions on Amazon.com don't list the maximum and minimum size openings for these clamps. Well, NOW "you know."

One pleasant surprise is that these are still "Made in USA" and they are stronger, wider and better than the OEM ones.

And, best of all, they are less expensive.

 

Sorry, forgot the link. Here it is.

Rotor Clip CTB-42ST FK, Steel, Constant Tension Band Hose Clamp, 1-21/32" Hose OD (Pack of 10)

 

Yes, rubber technology has really improved.

In the 1970's I replaced radiator hoses every two years.

I hated the OEM "tower" screw clamps used on Fords. The GM ones made from formed wire, a square nut and a machine screw were much worse.

Still, if you car is over six (6) years old, I'd have a spare set of radiator hoses, and especially if you live in a remote area.