Oil cooler line popped off massive oil loss.

Post by **rguzz** » 10 Mar 2016, 20:09

I just replaced the lower hose which was leaking badly, (Volvo OEM) but I did not replace the upper line, which was bone dry. I re-used the upper clamp, fitted the upper connector with new oem seals, properly inserted the end in the radiator, and used a zip tie over the c clamp itself. Before I was off the ramps the upper connection broke loose and I lost 4+ quarts of oil, faster than I ever could have imagined possible, I'd say within 30 seconds. I now have the c clamp secured with 2 Mercedes Benz hose clamps and have only just driven the car around the driveway but connection is intact. Needless to say, I am anxious about taking my 1000 mile trip this coming weekend. Advice? Do I replace old bracket with new OEM or leave the old one on secured with hose clamps. I set the clamps on both ends of the bracket, so the ends of the bracket would fit tightly in the grooved fittings. It "feels" nice and tight. Sorry for the long post but I'm feeling a bit vulnerable having witnessed a massive amount of what could easily have been a fatal oil hemorrhage in under a minute. What is the best possible strategy @ this Point? Leave everything as is, or not drive until I find a new connector bracket, is really my question. Thanks for listening.

Post by **rguzz** » 10 Mar 2016, 20:15

Just read a few more posts on this subject. I think I replaced the old c clamp as it was but can't swear to it, if that changes anything. Maybe the thick and thin part is off. Still wondering what I should do, though

Post by **polskamafia mjl** » 10 Mar 2016, 20:40

This happened to me as well. Make sure the thin and thick parts are oriented correctly and secure them with zipties. Give the hose a tug and see if it stays in place. If it doesn't move much and its dry when you start the car you should be ok. Generally I think if the clamps are going to pop off it'll be right away so if its going to happen it will happen soon after the initial start up.

Post by **erikv11** » 10 Mar 2016, 21:00

I'm with polska on this one, it sounds like it is secure now.

Most important is to make sure the thick end (with the curled edges, to spread over the rad nipple) is toward the rad, the thin end toward the engine. I have reused a lot of old clips and never had a problem, but I always secure them with zip ties.

warmblood58 · Post by **warmblood58** » 10 Mar 2016, 21:17

I think I will be zip tying mine tomorrow!

Post by **cn90** » 10 Mar 2016, 21:45

1+,

I posted info in forum, basically the "C-Clamp" has a thick and thin part. Make sure you install it correctly. It is crucial.

Re: zip tie vs screw-type clamp: I use only screw-type clamp, not taking chances of this thing.

Post by **rguzz** » 11 Mar 2016, 17:14

Yes. I zip tied mine, as I noted above, and that did nothing to prevent the fitting from popping out.The C clamp is kind of square, so I was reluctant to tighten like crazy, just snugged it down with two quality hose clamps, feels nice and tight and I'm feeling better after everyone's post, so thanks!

Post by **cn90** » 11 Mar 2016, 18:44

Note:

1. The THICK side of the clamp faces the radiator.

2. Then screw-type clamp.

Post by **erikv11** » 12 Mar 2016, 00:55

rguzz wrote:Yes. I zip tied mine, as I noted above, and that did nothing to prevent the fitting from popping out. ...

Then you didn't install the clamp right ...

It is very rare for these to pop off, even when they are not safe-guarded with zip ties or fort knox metal clamps.

Post by **rguzz** » 12 Mar 2016, 21:24

As I noted in my second post I suspect that is correct. The original C clamps were untouched for 20 years and never gave me any trouble, it all began after I did my repair.