The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks Wittek Clamps

I learned something new today. On Tony's 4-5-6-Chevy site, he used a clamp called a "Wittek" Clamp on the radiator hose setup he built. I've wonder what those were called, I see them on many cars and trucks and never gave a though as to whether there are 'more' correct for the early model years.

Was there a reason that why people switch to the more current band clamp style? I did a bit of searching and the tower clamps as they are call, need adjusting every once and a while.

Are those period correct for the 1960 model year?

This help?

http://shop.docrebuild.com/1953-1982genuinewittekgn38seriestowerclamp.aspx

Jake, I've had trouble even with the current band style. As mentioned earlier in a post here the "band" type most of us use today do not contract or swell at the same rate as the hose or the goose neck which is what gives me the "cold water leak" on top of my V8 manifold.
Pehaps GM was onto something when they used the "wire" clamp that most of us hate unless you have that neat little clamp pliers!

Back on topic here....
I've seen the Wittk Clamps many times but after some google searches it seems they were prone to leak unless they were snugged up regularly??? Never used them a long time on any vehicle I've had but seems they were used several years. The Chicago plant, according to my search, went out of business decades ago but some are being "stamp dated" but they are really not old.

Thank for making me do some research. I've learned something new today

...and yes, I still buy from Madeinusa!!!

Two things we do to help the misgivings of the Wittek tower clamps...one is apply a modest cost of black adhesive sealant on the ends of the hose, to promote adhesion & the integrity of the seal and secondly, make sure the inside diameter of the hose and the outside diameter of the male end the hose is connected to, are the same. As a safe-second, we use thermoplastic clamp, in conjunction with the Wittek tower clamps, to ensure a good seal, with the factory-correct appearance. A great source is the Gates Powergrip, thermoplastic clamps. If form & function are important, the thermoplastic clamps, provide the integrity of the seal and is obscure enough to maintain the form & satisfy function, as well.

Thanks Tony. Learned something new today.
Now I know how to stop those cold water leaks at the intake manifold goose neck!!
Checked out a Gates site but couldn't find the cost....and didn't want to give them my life history to find out. I'll visit a couple of my favorite auto parts store when I get a chance.

Thanks again for your contributions Tony.

Not sure if the "fast food" auto parts suppliers, carry the thermoplastic hose clamps, but they are available from Summit, JEGs & Speedway, I believe.