new cooling system(engine) now leaking
 

ok so i recently replaced upper and lower radiator hoses, radiator, thermostat, fan clutch, new fluids and hose clamps. now with all the new stuff in i am getting leaks from the lower and the upper radiator hoses. i did not put the origional hose clamps back on, i bought the ones that have a screw that tightens up the clamp. it is leaking on the lower hose where it connects to the motor and on the upper hose where it connects to the radiator. and i did not tighten the clams to much to crack the plastic on the radiatior.

my question is do i need to reposition where the hose clamps are on the hose to keep them from leaking? i did notice where the lower hose connects to the motor it was dirty, should i clean this real good and then reconnect the hose? or is there a better solution for this? everything is new so i do not understand why it is leaking!!

its a 95 2.3 4cyl BTW.

thanks for the help!

Remove them and clean the surfaces until dry and smooth then re-attach *dry*.

btw, the sealing takes place on the smooth and flat areas. The nub or barb on the connections keep the hose from sliding off. So place the clamps on the smooth areas.. not the barbs.

Rich