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Oetkier Clamp Tools vs Pex Crimp Tools?

00 Scrub

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Apr 13, 2024
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I have some automotive Oetkier clamps (Oetiker 167 and 154 stainless clamps) to install soon and was wondering if I could use the ratcheting PEX ear clamp tools to do the job, or if I need to get a Oetiker specific tool.

I've got both an Iwiss and iCrimp F2098 ratcheting PEX crimp tools. Will these work?
Thanks
 
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Jack Ryan

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Jun 2, 2022
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Adelaide, South Australia

cgrutt

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If the clamps and pex crimpers are what I think they are they won't work. I just use a pair of end cutters to compress those ear style clamps. They are not that expensive I would just buy the right tool for the clamps.
 

Jack Ryan

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cgrutt

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rlitman

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The tools I have are like this:

I was considering buying the Knipex pliers, but I've only got a handful to do and was hoping not to have to buy another tool if these ratcheting ones worked and were easier to use than the simple end knipper style ones.
The PEX ones are bulkier (may be difficult to fit into an automotive use) and apply a whole lot more force. I have used my Knipex ones on PEX many times, but they can be difficult to close, because the PEX ears are much stiffer than other Oetiker clamps. Otherwise, yes, they all close the same way, and the PEX ones won't overforce the ears, since they stop before closing.
 
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00 Scrub

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Apr 13, 2024
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Thanks for the help everyone. I should have good access since the motor is outside of the car right now.
 

Beerhippie

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Oct 13, 2023
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Far NE Oregon
I've used my PEX Oetiker tool for auto hoses all the time, and have yet to have a leak. It can be awkward due to the size.

Finding the correct size of Oetiker clamp is the hard part.
 

Beerhippie

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Ive used pex crimpers on std oeteker clamps with no issues, as well, I have used side cutters & end cutters/ nippers
I've broken regular Oetiker clamps using end nippers, too. That's why I started using the PEX crimper.

I've assembled some large beer delivery systems using the PEX crimpers and Oetiker clamps. Not a single fail or leak.

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That serves two sets of faucets with 12 products each. I bought Oetiker clamps by the hundred back then. I did three more systems like that for other pubs/tavern in the area.
 

Beerhippie

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Oct 13, 2023
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Location
Far NE Oregon
I've broken regular Oetiker clamps using end nippers, too. That's why I started using the PEX crimper.

I've assembled some large beer delivery systems using the PEX crimpers and Oetiker clamps. Not a single fail or leak.

54258955454_bb4c0def04_o.jpg

That serves two sets of faucets with 12 products each. I bought Oetiker clamps by the hundred back then. I did three more systems like that for other pubs/tavern in the area.
That's nine Oetikers per double-keg, X 12, plus two at the other end, X 24, X 4 installations. That's 624 total--no leaks, no fails. I replace some of the hoses yearly, so even more than that.
 

Steel_Rain

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Apr 23, 2024
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I was considering buying the Knipex pliers, but I've only got a handful to do and was hoping not to have to buy another tool if these ratcheting ones worked and were easier to use than the simple end knipper style ones.
I have the cheap Amazon kit and the legit KNIPEX. I use these often for German/Euro cars with PCV systems mostly. The KNIPEX are worth the money if you’re using them often because of the 2 way clamping method that can really help in tight areas. That said, for the occasional use or once and awhile DIY not in cramped areas, the China kit works just fine:

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