Car Fasteners, Hose Clips and Cleco Clamps

Why Do I need Car Fasteners and Hose Clips?

These might not be the most glamorous of parts, but they are essential to any major project or just for keeping things tidy under the bonnet. Often needed when replacing or modding parts or working on bodywork, it can also be worth upgrading standard clips and fixings with better-quality parts to improve reliability or performance. Sometimes the right part from this category can make the difference between a successful modification and wasted hours in the workshop.

What are they? Here you will find all the small parts to connect, attach and secure components or panels to each other and to the vehicle. In this section there are wiring clips and hose clips, temporary clamps to use while working on a modification, and a large range of captive nuts, clips, latches, rivets and quick release bolts. There are all the springs, and retainers you might need as well. Finally, there are accessories like clamp pliers and drill bits to allow for easy installation of these products.

Different types:

Here are a few of the product types you will find in this section of the website.

Hose Clips

There are a wide range of specialist hose clips for securing all types of hoses. High-performance clips reduce the chance of hose blow-off in high-pressure applications. Self-adjusting fuel pipe clips compensate for discrepancies in hose diameter. Ducting clips avoid overtightening on wire helix type ducting hoses. There is also a range of stainless steel worm-drive clips.

P-Clips

With all the wiring looms, fuel lines, air hoses, hydraulics and cooling systems found in any car it is easy for things to get messy. Rubber lined steel P-Clips are a simple, effective way to secure wiring and hoses to a panel to keep everything tidy. They can be installed using rivets or self-tapping screws and are available in zinc-plated or stainless steel.

Quick release

Originally invented for aircraft cowlings, Dzus or turnlock fasteners are used to secure bonnets, motorcycle fairings and other panels. The over-centre design prevents loosening through vibration, and the quarter-turn operation makes them easy to release. We stock both slot-head and D-ring studs along with clip-on or rivet-on receptacles. Ejecting Dzus fasteners have a stud which pops up when released. This makes it easier to remove panels in curved or contoured surfaces. More importantly, it clearly signals that the stud is unlocked making it obvious if a panel is not properly fastened. For those with race cars or bikes, or anybody else looking to shave off some weight, there are aluminium equivalents which are 50 per cent lighter. There is also a range of quick release latches for easily removable external or internal panels.

Reusable Cleco Clamps

These clamps are used to hold parts in place prior to riveting. They come in a range of sizes to fit drilled rivet holes. Both straight and side clamps are available. Placing these in the rivet holes to attach parts prior to riveting means that they can be easily assembled, aligned and disassembled before the final assembly. This section is the place to find the rivets you will need to finish the job too.

How they can improve a car

For securing hoses and other components, attaching removable panels, tidying wiring or making projects and maintenance easier, the small parts in this section make all the difference. On the surface, removable bodywork panels or bike fairings give easy access to the important stuff underneath. Quick release fasteners make it quicker and easier to get the panels off. And if they are installed well they look good too. Beneath the surface, well-secured hoses and wiring make for a tidy looking engine, but they also make sure the engine can do its job properly. Finally, the clamps and rivets found here make fabrication and assembly of parts a breeze. Keeping everything secured and aligned before riveting will save time and effort in bringing your projects to completion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fasteners & Hose Clips

Is it worth fitting a performance air filter?

Fitting a performance air filter can offer several benefits:

Improved Airflow: Performance air filters are designed to increase airflow to the engine, which can enhance performance.
Better Engine Efficiency: With improved airflow, the engine can operate more efficiently, potentially leading to better fuel economy.
Enhanced Throttle Response: Many users report a more responsive throttle, which can improve driving experience.
Longer Lifespan: Performance filters are often reusable and can last longer than standard filters, reducing replacement costs over time.
Potential Power Gains: Some drivers experience a slight increase in horsepower, although this can vary based on the vehicle and filter type.

However, the actual benefits can depend on the specific vehicle and driving conditions.

What are the cons of camming your car?

Camming your car can enhance performance, but it also comes with several drawbacks:

Increased Engine Wear: A camshaft can put additional stress on engine components, leading to faster wear and potential failure.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Performance cams often result in lower fuel economy due to altered air-fuel mixtures.
Compromised Driveability: Cams can affect low-end torque, making the car less responsive at lower RPMs.
Noise Levels: Performance cams can increase engine noise, which may not be desirable for all drivers.
Potential Emissions Issues: Altered engine performance can lead to higher emissions, potentially causing issues with regulations.
Cost of Installation: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can be expensive, including parts and labour.
Compatibility Issues: Not all engines are compatible with aftermarket cams, which can limit options.

Do camshafts change engine sound?

Yes, camshafts can change the engine sound. The design and specifications of a camshaft influence the timing and duration of valve openings, which affects the engine's performance and acoustics. Factors that contribute to changes in engine sound include:

Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can create a more aggressive sound.
Profile: Different camshaft profiles can alter the exhaust note.
Engine RPM: Camshafts designed for higher RPMs may produce a different sound compared to those for lower RPMs.
Engine Type: The overall engine configuration (e.g., V8, inline) also affects how camshaft changes impact sound.

Why do cammed cars sound choppy?

Cammed cars sound choppy primarily due to the characteristics of the camshaft profile. Here are the main reasons:

Lift and Duration: A camshaft with higher lift and longer duration allows more air and fuel into the engine, creating a more aggressive sound.
Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can lead to a rougher idle, contributing to the choppy sound.
Idle Speed: Cams designed for performance often require a higher idle speed, which can accentuate the choppy noise.
Exhaust Note: The changes in exhaust flow dynamics due to the cam profile can alter the exhaust note, making it sound more aggressive and choppy.

Does camshaft affect acceleration?

Yes, the camshaft does affect acceleration. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the engine's valve openings, which directly influences engine performance. Key factors include:

Valve Timing: Proper timing allows for optimal air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion, enhancing engine efficiency.
Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can improve power output at higher RPMs, which can lead to better acceleration.
Engine Tuning: A camshaft designed for performance can shift the power band, affecting how quickly the engine accelerates.

In summary, the design and specifications of the camshaft play a crucial role in determining how effectively an engine can accelerate.

Does camming a car make it louder?

Camming a car typically involves installing a performance camshaft, which can indeed make the engine louder. This increase in noise is due to several factors:

Increased Airflow: A performance camshaft allows for greater airflow into and out of the engine, which can enhance the exhaust note.
Higher RPMs: Cams designed for performance often operate at higher RPMs, producing a more aggressive sound.
Exhaust System Interaction: The camshaft can change the way exhaust gases exit the engine, potentially amplifying the sound through the exhaust system.

Overall, while camming a car can lead to a louder engine sound, the extent of the increase will depend on the specific camshaft used and the overall setup of the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft?

The cost to replace a camshaft can vary significantly based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, labour costs, and whether you choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket part. Typical costs include:

Parts: £200 to £1,000
Labour: £300 to £800

Overall, the total cost for camshaft replacement can range from approximately £500 to £1,800. Always consult with a mechanic for a precise estimate based on your specific vehicle.

Do camshafts increase horsepower?

Yes, camshafts can increase horsepower. They play a crucial role in controlling the timing and duration of the engine's intake and exhaust valves. Upgrading to a performance camshaft can enhance airflow, improve engine efficiency, and increase power output. Benefits of a performance camshaft include:

Improved airflow into and out of the engine
Increased torque and horsepower at higher RPMs
Better throttle response
Optimised engine performance for specific driving conditions

However, the extent of the horsepower increase depends on various factors, including the engine type, other modifications, and tuning.

What does a higher lift camshaft do?

A higher lift camshaft increases the amount of valve lift, allowing the engine to draw in more air and fuel during the intake stroke. This can lead to improved engine performance in several ways:

Increased Airflow: More air entering the combustion chamber can enhance combustion efficiency.
Higher Power Output: With better airflow, the engine can produce more power, especially at higher RPMs.
Improved Torque: A higher lift can also contribute to increased torque, particularly in performance applications.
Enhanced Throttle Response: The engine may respond more quickly to throttle inputs due to improved airflow dynamics.

However, it is important to consider that a higher lift camshaft may require additional modifications to the engine, such as upgraded valve springs and potentially changes to the engine's tuning.

What makes a cam aggressive?

An aggressive camshaft is characterised by several key features that enhance engine performance. These include:

Increased Lift: Higher lift allows the engine to draw in more air and fuel, improving combustion efficiency.
Longer Duration: A longer duration keeps the intake and exhaust valves open for a greater portion of the engine cycle, allowing for better airflow.
Steeper Ramp Rates: Faster opening and closing of the valves can lead to more power at higher RPMs.
Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can enhance performance by improving scavenging of exhaust gases.
Profile Shape: The specific shape of the cam lobes can influence how the engine responds at different RPMs, with aggressive profiles typically favouring high RPM performance.

These characteristics contribute to a camshaft that provides more power and responsiveness, particularly in performance-oriented applications.

Fasteners & Hose Clips