[335boston]

Hello all! I got a 2008 n54 335 that's FBO and I've been running into an issue ever since I installed my VRSF intercooler. I bought this intercooler new from VRSF and overall pretty happy with it but am having a odd issue and was wondering if anyone else has this problem. It seems as though about every 2 weeks the T bolt clamps that came with the kit keep getting loose and give me boost leaks . Boost leaks so bad I can actually hear and feel the car having the leak. This every 2 weeks I have to go in there tighten them up just for them to get loose again ! I was wondering if anyone had this issue with them and what they have done to fix it? I've been trying to look for a good brand that makes t bolt clamps but there's really no forum on it . I also do not know what sizes the 4 clamps are and was wondering if anyone could tell me ! Thanks so much!

[relative4]

You have to tighten them like you mean it. What kind of wrench are you using?

[335boston]

Originally Posted by relative4

You have to tighten them like you mean it. What kind of wrench are you using?

I've been tightening them to the point that the silicon couplings are being visibly Pinched ahha . I'm using just a standard ratchet with an extended bit .

[JM98]

Originally Posted by 335boston

Hello all! I got a 2008 n54 335 that's FBO and I've been running into an issue ever since I installed my VRSF intercooler. I bought this intercooler new from VRSF and overall pretty happy with it but am having a odd issue and was wondering if anyone else has this problem. It seems as though about every 2 weeks the T bolt clamps that came with the kit keep getting loose and give me boost leaks . Boost leaks so bad I can actually hear and feel the car having the leak. This every 2 weeks I have to go in there tighten them up just for them to get loose again ! I was wondering if anyone had this issue with them and what they have done to fix it? I've been trying to look for a good brand that makes t bolt clamps but there's really no forum on it . I also do not know what sizes the 4 clamps are and was wondering if anyone could tell me ! Thanks so much!

I changed all my t bolt clamps to high quality stainless steel worm clamps. Been at 21+ psi without issue for about 3 years now where previously I would constantly fight through issues with t bolt clamps slipping off or loosening over time.

I find that the worm clamps bite into the rubber just a bit and keep them from loosening or sliding over time. Additionally they are lower profile for hard to reach areas. As far as sizing, the boost piping is 2.5 inches (+the thickness of the rubber), so you would need clamps that are adjustable in that in that range (The ones I use are 2.4in-3.3in).

[relative4]

I just use a 1/4" ratchet and get them SOLID. Substantially pinched. Never had a problem, but I'm only at stage 1+.
You do have the nylock nuts, right?

[bimmerfan1972]

I just installed my VRSF IC last weekend. I was concerned about the clamps too, especially the hard to reach one that attaches to the cold side. I went back in when I was installing my charge pipe this weekend and tightened/realigned all of them. Hopefully they hold, but I'm pretty sure that one is going to pop off at some point.

[335boston]

Hey all , talk to some local tuners they say vibrant t bolt clamps are the way to go as they seem to have a good rep! I know one member mentions 2.5 inches for the boost side tip clamp but I think the inlets for the Vrsf 7 inch intercooler are much larger diameter . I'm going to email them and ask they sizes !

[mweisdorfer]

Never been a huge t bolt clamp fan. SS worm clamps work best

[335boston]

If anyone wants to know for the VRSF 7 inch intercooler , they told me that the clamps are 3" for the intercooler (left and right) and 2.5" for the piping !

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by 335boston

If anyone wants to know for the VRSF 7 inch intercooler , they told me that the clamps are 3" for the intercooler (left and right) and 2.5" for the piping !