What kind of pliers fasten hose clamps?

[Don Plumley]

I've looked on Snap-on and Craftsman and can't identify the type of pliers used to snug up this type of hose clamp:



In the past I've used end-nippers, but I know that's not optimum.

[Bullet Bob]

Your local plumbing supply store should have what you are looking for. They are the same pliers used for the PEX plumbing hose that is being used in houses now. Take the hose clamp with you to make sure you get the right ones as there are a few different varieties. Expect to pay $150 or so. I have a pair for plumbing projects and they work great.

[RickM]

Don: A quick search shows that to be an Oetiker Hose Clamp.

Here are plier options: http://www.northernbrewer.com/tubing.html

They say wire cutters do the trick ($13.50):




Or use the tool specifically designed for the task ($31.99):

[Bullet Bob]

You might also try these at Mcmaster Carr:

www.mcmaster.com
part number 6541K67

[Bullet Bob]

I have never tried nippers but the plumbing tool has a ratchet and leverage mechanism like bolt cutters do. They install the clamp and it will NEVER come loose :-)

[RickM]

Yep, seems the ratcheting types are what the pros use. Start at $130. Pex looks like a well rated brand.

[hcoles]

you can use wire cutters or what are called carpenters pincers... these have sharp edges... the Oetiker official crimpers have "rounded" edges... If you were going to do many of these I would get the "official" tool - the Knipex tool pictured above looks very good... can be used at many different angles.

[KTL]

IMO the ratcheting one isn't really necessary. The small Oetiker clamps don't require gorilla effort to clamp them. I've got the Knipex tool and it works nicely for the DIY hack like me.

[gizmofixer]

Kent-Moore also makes a GM special tool for these boot clamps, it uses two breaker bars for leverage. Let me know if you want the Kent-Moore part number.
Our shop guys use the flat front dikes.

[911quest]

Like stated above you need cv boot clamp pliers that' what I use. The pair I have are snap-on tool #YA3080 hope that helps.

[3.2 CAB]

I have a Snap-On boot tool, it will tighten the band, then with the crimping pliers, you tighten the clamp, with the end-nipper type pliers, while keeping tension on the band with the clamp tool. I have used the end-nipper type pliers to tighten the "factory style" crimped on hose clamps. It is very similar to the one in the first picture, but has a blunt edge instead of a cutting type edge.

[ChrisBennet]

I use these:

I got mine a few years ago locally but I found them online just now for $16.
They are made by KD.
Google for "KD CV JOINT BOOT CLAMP PLIERS"
-Chris

[Don Plumley]

Thanks everyone!

[Jason Cullen]

Don!

Simple Hello! Hope all is well!

Jason