Clamps come in a variety of types and sizes, and some are better than others. Clamp or hose failure is a real problem on all engines, and PWC engines seem to have more issues than most. While there are many types that will work, and the factory supplies a variety of types as oem, the BEST clamps for most all uses are OETIKER Type 167 ear clamps.
Most fuel and oil lines on jet skis are secured with common multi-use clamps. Either screw clamps, which are a rachet type system that are tightened with a screw driver, or spring type clamps which are squeezed and then released. Even zip ties are commonly used.
The sizes available for use in jet skis are limited, with only 1 or 2 sizes for each intended use. These cover a range of diameters using the tightening of the clamp to fit the job at hand. The tightening of these clamps to get a good grip often tightens them beyond their intended use
They can loosen with time, vibration or wear, and when hoses expand in the heat, they have no give and can damage them causing their eventual failure.
The clamps I recommend to my customers are Oetiker ear clamps. These have a more secure grip and are virtually slip-proof. Rather than a limited range of sizes, they come in dozens of sizes to specifically fit each individual use. They are made of premium quality stainless steel, and have rolled edges so they don’t damage the tubing. They have a spring effect that allows for thermal expansion, holding tight but not damaging hoses like other clamps can, and the low profile provides a clean hold with no sharp edges or parts sticking out.
They are quickly installed or removed with a simple and easy to use Oetiker or Knipex tool, and if you don’t have these, you can use common hand tools (diagonal cutter to install, and flat screwdriver to remove). They are the best way to secure tubing and hoses that I have found, thus preventing your hoses and lines from coming loosing or breaking and ruining your day on the water, or worse, damaging your motor or other jet ski parts.
Along with clamps for hoses and lines, we carry a wide variety of sizes for almost all PWC clamp needs. This includes:
- oil lines and fuel lines (poly, tygon or rubber)
- PTO boots and driveshaft protection hoses
- cooling hoses and vent lines
You can view my video on using the Oetiker clamps and tool below and they are always available at The Jet Ski Store.
