Can you open an ear/Oetiker clamp prior to installation?

Post by **prwood** » 05 Feb 2021, 08:18

Normally I install clamps like this by sliding them over the object to be clamped.

But I’m wondering if it’s possible to open them prior to installation so they could be wrapped around a part that’s already installed and can’t be slid onto?

I can’t tell from the photo if the teeth and holes on the right would allow this, or if it’s factory preattached and can’t be opened?

Post by **oragex** » 05 Feb 2021, 10:41

That exact model does open.

Post by **abscate** » 05 Feb 2021, 15:16

I think when you buy the real deal they can open. The cheap ones won’t.

Post by **SuperHerman** » 05 Feb 2021, 20:04

They can and I have done it. Sometimes one has to slightly bend the tab up so it can be opened, then once installed bend it back down. Be careful not to break the tab -metal fatigue.

Post by **erikv11** » 06 Feb 2021, 16:47

Yes.

I always install them on axle boots by opening.

Post by **darrylrobert** » 08 Feb 2021, 01:55

i did one today this way, i have both the "real" fixed size ones and "cheap" adjustable ones and both allow this...the "cheap" ones are tabs go down for some reason so i just adjust it close to the size needed then bent the tabs so they dont dig into the boot.

The brand Volvo use are the ones that dont open easily.

Post by **prwood** » 09 Feb 2021, 12:24

I received my genuine Volvo clamps in the mail today and confirmed that they do pop open pretty easily. Will plan on installing them later this year when the weather is a bit warmer... zip ties are standing in until then.