Best Hose Clamp Pliers: Buyer’s Guide & Reviews in 2019
Hoses are the circulatory system of any vehicle. They carry fluids, coolant, fuel, and even exhaust products and, together, make for an intricate setup that gives life to your car.
But hoses aren’t the only elements that matter as they need to be attached to the body of the car and controlled. And this is where hose clamps come in. Their role is to keep all the fluids in the hose and make connections between hoses and the rest of the system.
Now, ask any mechanic or DIY passionate, and they’ll tell you that hose clams are a pain in the behind. They need to be wrapped tightly around the hose and, to keep everything in place, they also need to be difficult to remove or loosen (so you don’t find a puddle of brake fluid under your vehicle after every pothole).
On the other hand, whenever you need access to a hose, these clamps can be quite overzealous and difficult to reach. As a result, they cause quite a series of bruises and minor injuries, if you don’t use best hose clamp pliers for your needs.
So, if you’re just recovering from a hose clamp related injury or just don’t want to go through the experience, have a look at our reviews and buyer’s guide below.
1. Astro Pneumatic Tool 9409A
This tool is powerful, easy to use in a wide array of difficult situations (related to the automotive field), and durable. The pliers can be used with both plastic and metallic clamps, with a diameter between 18 and 54mm.
The 9409A comes with a double-gear lock lever that allows you to secure the tool in place without too much effort. Once locked, you can keep a clamp open or half-open (hands-free), while you’re working on the hose or repositioning the clamp.
Furthermore, the high-strength cable is flexible and lets you reach clamps that are hidden deep within the vehicle’s belly or in tight places that don’t allow for full-size tools. You just attach the end of the cable to the clamp and squeeze the pliers.
The 9409A pliers are best suited for amateur mechanics who don’t want to invest too much in a full set. Still, it’s best to keep in mind that they require a bit more squeeze force for large clamps.
- Allows for removal of plastic and/or metal self-tightening hose clamps with diameters of 11/16-inch - 2-1/2-inch (18mm - 54mm)
- Precision clamp on end of flexible cable allows for extended reach where other models cannot reach
- Pliers can be locked, freeing up your hands and making your job easier and faster. Use the threaded adjustment at the end of the cable to customize the last locking tooth position
- Re-engineered for maximum strength
2. Performance Tool W80656
They may not look like much of a tool, but the W80656 pliers bring a lot of flexibility to your toolbox. Equipped with a 24-inch flexible heavy-duty cable, these pliers are perfect for those hard-to-reach clips in your engine that usually like to put up a fight.
The pliers also have a locking mechanism that lets your hands free, once you manage to set it in place. They work with clamps of all sizes, from around 0.5 inches to 2.5 inches in diameter. However, I would only recommend them to amateur mechanics because the stainless steel handle can be a bit difficult to grip.
As such, it’s quite easy to deal with it on short jobs, but if you need to use it all day long, it can get frustrating.
- LOCKING MECHANISM: Pliers feature a locking mechanism that securely holds the clamp in the open position, allowing for easy removal and installation of clamps.
- FLEXIBLE CABLE: With its heavy-duty 24-Inch cable, the pliers flex to almost any position, making it easy for technicians to access and work with flat-type hose clamps in hard-to-reach areas.
- VERSATILE: The Performance Tool W80656 Flexible Hose Clamp Pliers are versatile and suitable for use on a wide range of vehicles and equipment.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made with durable materials, these pliers are built to last and can withstand heavy use in automotive and industrial settings.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The pliers feature an ergonomic design that provides a comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue, making them easier to use for extended periods of time.
3. Hose Clamp Pliers Auto Repair Tool
If you’re looking for maximum value for the money and your budget is not too generous, have a look at these heavy-duty pliers. Made from high carbon steel and equipped with handles double-dipped in rubber (for better grip), this tool works with both flat-type and ring-type clamps.
The handle supports an opening of an inch and three quarters and, once locked in place, it can swivel without loosening the grip (which means you’ll be able to work on the hose and clip from different angles).
However, you should know that the handle isn’t spring-loaded, so it can be difficult to use with just one hand if you don’t have some upper body strength.
- These are professional quality Hose Clamp Pliers that feature high carbon steel with firm grip handles double dipped in rubber for heavy-duty use for the easy removal of flat-type or ring-type hose clamps.
- With a max opening of 1-3/4”,these Hose Clamp Pliers can be used on most ring-type or flat-band hose clamps for easy removal and installation.
- Tested and approved for strength, durability, and fit.
- Tips trap and hold clamp and swivel for multiple angle access.
- For fuel & coolant pipe spring clips, suitable for all kinds of vehicle
4. BETOOLL 9pcs Wire Long Reach Hose Clamp Pliers Set
If you’re a passionate amateur mechanic or a professional, you will need a set of hose clamp pliers that can help you untighten any type of clip, regardless of how awkwardly placed.
The Betooll set comes with nine pieces, among which you can find: swivel jaw pliers, curved hose pliers with a 45° bent angle for deep position, cross slotted jaw pliers with swivel jaws for both ring and flat clamps, Clic-r collar pliers, hose remover pliers and hook, a double head screwdriver, and flexible pliers with a heavy-duty wire for difficult positions.
Each tool is designed with a plastic handle, for better grip, and all of them feature a locking mechanism that lets your hands free.
Since you have so many different pieces, the set is delivered in a durable plastic case. This makes it easy to transport and store.
- Pliers can be locked, feeing up your hands and making your job easier and faster.
- Long reach hose clamp plier with wire flexible wire shaft.
- Convenient for working hidden areas and long distance
- For replacement of fuel, oil, and water hose.
- For the removal and locking of clamps into open position.
5. Astro 9406 Hose Clamp Plier Set
This set was designed with the needs of most professional mechanics in mind. As such, it comes with seven different tools: 1 pair of standard hose clamp pliers, 1 pair of hose removal pliers, 1 pair of flat band hose clamp pliers, 1 pair of angled flat band clip pliers, 2 pairs of swivel pliers, and 1 pair of Clic-R collar pliers.
Each of these tools works with plastic or metal hose clips and can handle a wide array of sizes (from 0.5 inches to 2.5 inches or 18mm – 54mm). Also, all the pliers feature a locking mechanism and the plastic handles are durable and easy to grip.
- Comprehensive hose service pliers set for self-tensioning hose clamps, flat band hose clamps, Clic-R collar clamps and hose removal
- Includes Astro's 9409 cable type pliers, two types of ratcheting swivel jaw pliers, two types of flat band clamp pliers, Clic-R collar pliers and hose remover pliers
How to Choose the Best Hose Clamp Pliers?
Now that you’ve read the reviews, let’s have a look at the features that make these pliers so amazing.
Flexibility
The best pliers will be able to reach and loosen a hose clip, regardless of its position in the engine. For this, you need a tool equipped with a heavy-duty but flexible cable that is long enough to reach deep inside the vehicle’s belly.
Usually, the length of the cable is between 12 and 24 inches, but if you have the option, always choose the pliers with the longer one. These are the most flexible.
Opening Width
This feature lets you know about the size of clamps you can operate with your new pliers. As you can see from the reviews above, the ones I chose have an opening between 0.5 inches and 2.5 inches. This covers most clips and hoses used in a standard vehicle’s engine, so you are covered.
However, if you work with atypical engines (classic cars, sports vehicles, and more), you may want to look for a special type of tool.
Locking Mechanism
The locking mechanism locks the tension in the handle, keeping the clamp open to the degree you want. As a result, your hands are free to work on the hose or clip, you can adjust the angle and more. When you’re done, simply release the lock, and remove the pliers.
This reduces hands fatigue from having to apply constant pressure and makes the job easier and safer.
Durable Materials
When it comes to tools for the auto industry, I always like to go with stainless steel. It is durable, lasts longer than most materials, and resists well to rust and corrosion. You’ll also find pliers made from aluminum (to reduce the cost), but they won’t last as long.
Good Grip
The handle of the pliers is just as important as the part that gets in contact with the hose clamp. This part of the tool needs to provide a good grip, which is why the best designs come with handles dipped in rubber or plastic.
You should also choose a tool with slightly curved handles that allow you to apply pressure more precisely. Tools with straight handles are more difficult to use and can lead to hand fatigue during long jobs.
When do I Need Pliers?
While they are designed for a specific item (quite small) in a vehicle’s system, these tools are invaluable when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Here are a few situations to consider:
Engine Maintenance/Repairs
Let’s say you want to put the engine on an engine hoist to have better access and work on it without being hindered by the rest of the vehicle. Before you can do anything, you need to disconnect every hose and wire that keeps the engine attached to the body of the car.
This operation can be difficult and time-consuming without the right tools, but with a set of hose clamp pliers, things could be ready in minutes.
Hose Maintenance
The fluids that keep the car running can have a corrosive effect on the hoses, but time is also a factor to consider. For instance, an old vehicle must have all its hoses inspected for cracks and signs of aging before you can take it out on the road (safely).
So, whenever you need to check on a hose or change one, you’ll need to work with the clamps that keep everything in place.
Sings of Leak Underneath the Vehicle
If you find signs of leakage underneath your car (oil, water, coolant, or other fluids), it’s definitely the time to inspect your hoses. Even if the leak doesn’t look significant, it can get bigger in time and can lead to bigger damage.
How to Use Clamp Pliers Correctly
Hoses are part of a mechanic’s live like air or water. They are crucial to a vehicle’s good functioning, but also show up in accessories and maintenance tools (like brake bleeder kits), so you will have to deal with them whether you like getting your hands dirty or not.
So, it’s best to learn how to deal with them and the tools required for maintenance.
Now, before you start loosening any clamp, make sure the engine is off and that the hose doesn’t have any fluid in it. It’s important to make sure the hose is empty because the shift in pressure can cause a rupture, which will cause fluid to gush all over your engine and yourself.
Once everything is ready, attach the plie to the outer edges of the clamp. Make sure the pliers are well fitted and squeeze the handles. This will cause the clamp to collapse and open, which releases the hose.
Once the clamp is open, you can wiggle it around and move it from its original place (or remove it altogether). If you’re working with pliers with a locking mechanism, just lock them to the opening you need and continue your work.
Once you’re done, unlock the pliers and remove them from the clamp (which will shut in place).
Here’s how to use a hose clamp tool with a cable
Wrap Up
Hose clamp pliers don’t have universal use, which is why many amateur mechanics are reluctant when it comes to purchasing them. But they have a very specific purpose, that’s difficult to replicate with other tools.
Furthermore, a high-quality tool is not expensive, but it is durable and doesn’t take that much place in your toolbox. It’s also the safest and easiest way to work with hoses mounted on a vehicle. So, if you don’t like constantly investing in your car repair kit, think of it as investing in your own safety.