**Last week a loose hose clamp on the raw water hose leading to the heat exchanger caused a lot of water to get into the boat. This is my fifth marine diesel and the first time I have ever had to tighten a hose clamp. Turned out that ALL the clamps needed tightening!
Now it is in my do list to check clamps monthly.
Has anyone else had this problem?
Dave DeWolfe
NS26C Ascension
Gold River Marina, Nova Scotia.**
Dave,
Two gas, four diesel, and two electric engines and I’ve never encountered this.
If hose clamps loosening is a common problem, we really need to get the word out. It would never have occurred to me to check mine. You’re definitely not alone in being surprised.
There are some really good mechanics in the forum and I hope some of them chip in.
If the boat’s new to you, or recently overhauled, I’d suspect whoever did the installation. Alternatively, could it be off-brand, low quality clamps?
If you find you have to re-tighten them during your checks, I’d suggest replacing instead.
– Bob
I don’t remember ever finding a loose hose clamp. Broken ones, including two on this boat so far, but not loose.
Some people over tighten things. Sounds like some overly cautious soul may have been bitten by that and went too far the other way. But to be fair, there is no obvious ideal stopping point.
Sigh. Now I suppose I will have to go around and check all of my hose clamps. Who knows what new problems that will turn up.