The modern Kawasaki KX450 and 250 are now fitted with spring band constant tension type radiator hose clamps rather than the worm gear style that we are used to seeing. These are not a bad clamp and are regularly used in the automotive industry. The biggest problem is see with these clamps is people fitting them incorrectly so here I will show you how to do it correctly so next time you need to fit radiator hoses you won’t encounter any problems.

#1 A LITTLE BIT OF LUBRICATION

I like to start by spraying silicon spray on the alloy hose outlet and the radiator hose. These are brand new silicon hoses so they can be sticky and the silicon spray helps the hose and clamp slide into place easily instead of fighting with it.

#2 FURTHER PREPARATION

You will now need to fit the spring clamp to the radiator hose. To do so you grab the two tabs on the clamp with multi grip pliers and squeeze the tabs together to expand the clamp.

#3 SLIP IT ON

Now slide the clamp into position on the radiator hose and fit it into position.

#4 IN POSITION

Hold the clamp open in the expanded position with the pliers while you slide the hose into place.

#5 BELOW THE LIP

Position the clamp so that it is squeezing the hose below the lip on the alloy water outlet. This lip will not allow the hose and clamp to slip off but if the clamp is positioned on or above this lip then the hose and clamp can leak or slip off.

#6 CHECK FOR SNAGS

Lastly, make sure the tabs on the hose clamp are positioned so they are not going to grab or rub on any moving parts. Then continue with the same procedure for any other clamps that need fitting.

TOOLS:

Silicon Spray, Multi grip pliers

DO’S

  • Use silicon spray on the hose to help position the hose and clamp
  • Be gentle not to damage the hose or clamp
  • Always fit the clamps on the hose below the lip on the alloy water outlets

DON’TS

  • Drag the clamp along the hose with expanding it as they can cut and damage the hose
  • Bend the clamps or tabs when holding them with pliers
  • Fit the clamps with the tabs facing in a position they can catch on anything

WARNING:

If radiator hoses are not fitted correctly then the hose can either leak or completely come off spilling boiling hot coolant everywhere. If not noticed then this will lead to the engine failing.

EXTRA TRICK

If your hands aren’t steady enough to hold the radiator clamps with multi grip pliers then there are specialty spring band hose clamp pliers available that are available from all good tool shops.