Date:         Fri, 8 Jun 2012 19:58:14 -0400
Reply-To:     Mike S <mikes@FLATSURFACE.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike S <mikes@FLATSURFACE.COM>
Subject:      Re: Factory Hose Clamps
Comments: To: JRodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <4FD28C34.2010900@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

On 6/8/2012 7:35 PM, JRodgers wrote:
> I'm sure there is a tool to remove and reinstall VW factory hose clamps
> but what is it? And where could I get one? I want to remove the hose
> clamps on the rear heater hoses and would like to reuse them - among
> others on my vans. Hate to destroy them. Anyone dealt with this before?

I have an AC, but from your question will guess that they used Oetiker
clamps (which they use a lot of on current vehicles). They're not made
to be reused, but you sometimes can. Normally, you just use some pliers
to twist them, breaking the overlap, to get them off. If you want to
try, you can use an awl or small screwdriver to try and spread the
pinch. Search for "oetiker pliers" for the tool to crimp them on. ~$25.
The Knipex ones are the best.