enjracing

hi all. i just put a new air filter in my wife's 2013 c350 sport, and I cannot reclip the clamp that connects the air meter elbow to the air box.. as the clamp has rounded-edges, my needle-nose pliers just slip on it. any suggestions on how to reclip it without having to buy a special clamp tool? I also think my needle nose pliers are too short. thanks for any help. attached is a pic oft he clamp.

michail71

I think that looks like a one time use clamp. You can replace it with a worm drive clamp from the auto parts store.

gamma300C

I have had better luck with a set of regular pliers set to the wider opening slot and pressing down hard while trying to compress the clamp. When the little 'hook" part is shot, I just use a worm hose clamp although, like you maybe, I like the OEM look if possible.

michail71

I think those style clamps are to help save time in manufacturing.

Although I thought the one on my car had a worm drive connecting to the airbox. I don't have the car anymore so I can't check. The C250 airbox is a major PITA to clamp back in place.

enjracing

tnx gents. yea, i'll try the big regular adjustable pliers, and if that doesn't do, it i'll buy a normal hose clamp. I think you are spot on about the reason why they use these stupid things. so annoying.

IGB

^^That^^, and they are a one-sure-size that is known to fit perfectly on the MAF housing inlet...

So be mindful not to over tighten a worm drive clamp if you end up using one. You don't want to crack the MAF housing...

JohnnyC

You just need clic-r pliers...

A bunch of companies from all over the world make them. The taiwanese and Chinese ones are around $10.

enjracing

beat me to it! yep, just ordered some 10bux ones on ebay. I'm sure my wife is ok to drive the car for a few days until they arrive, as the connection is really snug even with the clamp undone. tnx, mate.