I replaced the muffler today on a Kobelco 115 short radius excavator. Only trouble is that we couldn't get the clamp between the turbo and the muffler off in salvageable condition. The replacement is fairly pricey. Part #10 in this picture: http://partstore.kobelcoamerica.com/us/parts-search.html#epc::mr03-389ar03-389-7822-68549 Is there any compelling reason to NOT use a plain old $3 automotive style 2 1/2" muffler clamp? Thanks in advance for your insights... :notworthy
In most cases you could use a plain old u-clamp just fine. The big advantage to the band style clamp is it doesn't compress a ring in the pipe like a u-clamp does so it makes disassembly easier for future service or repairs.
I order those smaller band style clamps through a local truck parts store. They keep sizes down to 4' but they can order 2.5". Might be worth checking on before you put a permanent crimp in your pipe.
Thanks, guys. Willie, your point about future diassembly is well taken. I'm not sure how easy that will be anyway, because it was a bear to get the old one off, even with the factory clamp, but I really don't want to be the one to crimp up the inlet to a $545 muffler and make it so that it needs replaced if something unrelated goes bad. It's not my machine, and not my money, so they can go with the more expensive option. They had a guy going to the dealer today anyway, so he just picked one up while he was there...