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Gates PowerGrip SB Heat-Shrink Clamps: The Best Upgrade for Supercharged LS Intercooler and Radiator Hoses
Gates PowerGrip SB Heat-Shrink Clamps: The Best Upgrade for Supercharged LS Intercooler and Radiator Hoses
Gates PowerGrip SB Heat-Shrink Clamps: The Best Upgrade for Supercharged LS Intercooler and Radiator Hoses
If you're building or maintaining a supercharged LS engine, you already know how critical reliable hose clamps are. Heat, boost pressure, and constant thermal cycling can quickly turn standard worm-drive or spring clamps into failure points. That’s where Gates PowerGrip SB heat-shrink clamps shine.
These advanced thermoplastic clamps deliver a clean, professional-looking install while providing superior 360° sealing performance that traditional clamps simply can’t match.
Why Choose Gates PowerGrip SB Clamps?
- Even clamping force — Unlike worm-drive clamps that pinch one side of the hose, PowerGrip SB clamps shrink uniformly around the entire circumference for a perfect seal.
- Heat and vibration resistant — Once shrunk, they stay tight through heat cycles, boost spikes, and rough roads — ideal for forced-induction LS setups.
- Maintenance-free — No need to check or retighten clamps after installation.
- Hose-friendly — They won’t cut or damage silicone or rubber hoses like overtightened metal clamps can.
- Clean appearance — Sleek black finish looks factory or show-car ready under the hood.
Recommended PowerGrip SB Sizes for Supercharged LSA Builds
Always measure your hose OD (outside diameter) at the clamping location for the most accurate fit. Here are the most common sizes used on supercharged LS intercooler and radiator systems:
| Hose Application | Nominal ID | Gates Part # | Fits Hose OD Range | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intercooler Hoses | 5/8" | 32925 | 15/16" – 1-1/16" (24–27 mm) | 5/8 or 10AN intercooler Hose |
| Intercooler Hoses | 3/4" | 32929 | 1-1/16" – 1-3/16" (27–30 mm) | 3/4 or 12AN intercooler Hose |
| Upper Radiator Hose | 1-1/4" | 32941 | 1-1/2" – 1-3/4" (38–44 mm) | LS upper radiator connections |
| Lower Radiator Hose | 1-1/2" | 32948 | 1-3/4" – 2" (44–51 mm) | LS lower radiator & water pump |
Pro Tip: Aftermarket silicone hoses or custom radiators can vary slightly from stock dimensions. Always double-check your measurements before ordering.
How to Install Gates PowerGrip SB Clamps
Installation is quick and straightforward:
- Slide the clamp onto the hose before attaching the fitting (a small piece of cardboard inside the clamp helps prevent premature shrinking).
- Push the hose fully onto the barb or fitting, covering any bead or lip.
- Use a standard 1000W heat gun and apply even heat while rotating the hose. The clamp will shrink tightly in under 60 seconds and develop a glossy finish when fully set.
- Allow it to cool before pressurizing the system.
Note: These are one-time use clamps. Once shrunk, they are extremely secure. For removal, carefully cut them off or use the dedicated Gates removal tool.
Where to Buy Genuine Gates PowerGrip SB Clamps
You can find these clamps at major automotive retailers including Summit Racing, Jegs, Amazon, and authorized Gates distributors. They are typically sold in packs of 10 for the best value.
Looking for the exact sizes for your supercharged LS project? Check our product pages for the full selection of Gates PowerGrip SB clamps in the sizes you need.
Final Thoughts
For anyone running boosted LS power, upgrading to Gates PowerGrip SB heat-shrink clamps is one of the smartest and most reliable improvements you can make to your cooling system. They eliminate clamp-related headaches and give you confidence that your hoses will stay secure under pressure and heat.