10 Best Exhaust Clamps for Cars, Trucks & Suvs | Expert’s Guide
Although most of the car exhausts are just welded, there are many which are mounted using clamps as well. Clamps are quite helpful when you want to have extra protection, do alterations, etc. A good exhaust clamp ensures good hold and provides many other advantages that we will find out.
In this session, I will take you on a tour of the best exhaust clamps that you can find this year. My goal is to make things crystal clear for you to help you purchase better.
How to Select the Best Exhaust Clamps?
If you are confused about what to look for while buying the best exhaust clamp, then stop worrying because this section is exclusively for you. Before getting into details, I will tell you about what to look for in an exhaust clamp. So, pay attention, and you will end up buying the best product out there!
Material
The first thing that I want you to make sure about is the material. Keep in mind that you need something of automotive grade. There will be vibrations and a lot of bumps. So, the product that you are looking for should be able to handle all that.
In materials, my first recommendation is 304 stainless steel. Trust me; it is the best grade of steel out there. It will definitely live up to your expectations. But if you want to go for cheaper options, then a lower-grade material would also work. Moreover, aluminized steel is also a good option.
Design
When it comes to the design of exhaust clamps, you have to be conscious about it. Otherwise, a wrong clamp won’t be able to handle the exhaust system. The design should be easy to handle and install. Along with that, it should be able to divide the load evenly for better performance. Therefore, pay attention to this one as well.
Type
Now when it comes to the type of band clamp, there are usually two types. One is a band clamp, while the other is U-clamp. The band clamp is further divided into two; narrow and wide. They handle the job quite well by evenly distributing the load.
The U-type is pretty different. It is unlike the band type. It can provide a good connection and seal, but it does not handle the even distribution of the load.
Joint
The joints are mainly of two types; butt joint and lap joint. You have to make sure what you want. The functionality does not get affected a lot, but the handling and installation are directly affected by the type of joint. If you want more details, then you can definitely surf more on it.
Compatibility
I would recommend that you get a highly compatible clamp. Because they are removable and you can reuse them. So, to enhance their functionality and usability, you should go for a highly compatible product.
Measurements
There is a pretty thin line between a good fit and a bad fit. Therefore, you should make sure about the measurements to find the best fit.
Cost
The cost should be low, and the features should be high. A good product does not have to be expensive.
Top 10 Best Exhaust Clamps Comparison
Image | Product | Dimensions | Joint Type | Specialty | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Material: EVIL ENERGY 3.0 | 4.49 x 3.43 x 3.39 inches | Butt Joint | Great load distribution | Check Price | |
Exhaust Mate 35794 U-Bolt | 4.8 x 4.2 x 0.9 inches | U-type | Good clamping and connection | Check Price | |
EVIL ENERGY Exhaust Band Clamp | 3.82 x 3.31 x 3.03 inches | Lap Joint | Pretty good design | Check Price | |
SYKRSS Lap Joint Band Clamp | 4.3 x 3.2 x 3.4 inches | Lap Joint | Good material and strength | Check Price | |
Roadformer Butt Exhaust Clamp | 3 x 2.5 x 3 inches | Butt Joint | Innovative connection handling feature | Check Price | |
TOTALFLOW Exhaust Clamp | 3.25 x 0.63 x 2.88 inches | U-type | Great material for a U-type clamp | Check Price | |
Walker 35774 Exhaust Clamp | 6.3 x 5.6 x 0.9 inches | U-type | High durability | ||
BLACKHORSE-RACING Accuseal Clamp | 5.04 x 2.91 x 1.26 | Butt Joint | Unique design | ||
Roadformer Lap Joint Exhaust Band Clamp | 6.22 x 3.3 x 6.45 inches | Lap Joint | Good handling | ||
Walker 35335 | 4.2 x 3.4 x 0.9 inches | U-type | Great price |
Our 10 Picks of Best Exhaust Clamps
There are a lot of exhaust clamps available in the market. Some of them are good, and some are bad. But a few are the best. Yes, I am talking about the products on my list. I will now review all of them for your better understanding. I will also mention some decision-making factors to put up a better comparison. Remember that A+ is for the best while C is for the least. Here you go!
1. Best Material: EVIL ENERGY 3.0 Exhaust Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: EVIL ENERGY
- Material: T 304 Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 15.2 ounces
- Joint Type: Butt
- Package Dimensions: 4.49 x 3.43 x 3.39 inches
- Style: Band Clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Material: Top-notch
Handling: Easy
My first pick that sits on the top position on my list is the EVIL ENERGY exhaust clamp. This clamp is pretty amazing, and it has a place in my heart as well. All of this is due to its incredible features.
First of all, let’s talk about its material. When someone talks about automotive materials, one name comes to mind. It is T 304 Stainless Steel. Yes, an incredibly robust material that is also known as an aircraft-grade material. It is considered the highest material grade. All of this is ensured by the chromium and nickel content available in it. Thus, you get high durability.
Next up is the design. When it comes to exhaust clamps, the design also matters. Not only in terms of functionality but also convenience. Although, in the case of clamps, there is very low design complexity involved, and material plays the most important role. But still, its band clamp style with durable material makes it pretty amazing.
The benefit of a band clamp is that it distributes the whole load evenly all around, and along with that, it prevents leaks as well.
When it comes to compatibility, it goes with Catback exhausts, mufflers, downpipes, headers, and manifolds. After all, it is a pretty reliable product. If it meets the compatibility, then I will definitely recommend it.
Pros
- Top-grade material makes it highly durable
- The design is incredible to distribute loads
- The compatibility is pretty good
- The product is very reliable
Cons
- There are some consistency issues; the rest is fine
Read Also: Best CV Boot Clamp Tool
2. Best for Heavy-Duty Job: Exhaust Mate 35794 U-Bolt
Specifications
- Brand: Walker
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 9.77 ounces
- Joint Type: Bolted
- Package Dimensions: 4.8 x 4.2 x 0.9 inches
- Style: U-type
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A
Design: B+
Material: Medium
Handling: Easy
On the second spot, we have a different yet amazing product. This is a U-bolt exhaust clamp. It looks pretty old-school by appearance. But it ensures leak-free connections.
Talking about its design, it is very simple yet very functional. The U part and the opposite component are so aligned to perfectly perform the tightening through bolts.
When we discuss the purpose of an exhaust clamp, a leakage-free connection becomes one of the things. This clamp may look simple, but it effectively fulfills that need.
To top it off, let me tell you about the material. It is made of metal that might not be the highest grade, but there is enough durability and robustness to perform the job. Thus, it serves you for longer.
Its ring-shaped design might not be as good as the band clamp load distribution mechanism, but when it comes to its kind, you get the best results undoubtedly. With the help of this exhaust clamp, your repairs become more convenient.
Overall, it is a pretty good product, and I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for U-bolt clamps. So, don’t wait more and buy it. Well, if you haven’t still found the desired one, then keep reading because there is a lot more ahead.
Pros
- It provides a good leak-free grip
- Handling this clamp is pretty easy
- The heavy-duty material enhances durability
- The installation gets pretty easy
Cons
- It does not evenly handle the load
- Threads could have been stronger
Comparison between the No. 01 and No. 02 Product on My List
Let’s now compare the top two products for your better understanding.
- The material of the first product is 304 Stainless Steel that is the best grade out there, but the second product has a lower grade material.
- The first product evenly distributes the load for better handling, while the second one lacks this.
- The first product ensures better quality than the second one.
- The second product feels a bit more heavy-duty.
3. Best for Lap Joint: EVIL ENERGY Exhaust Band Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: EVIL ENERGY
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 14.07 ounces
- Joint Type: Lap
- Package Dimensions: 3.82 x 3.31 x 3.03 inches
- Style: Band Clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Material: Top-notch
Handling: Easy
If you want to connect some heavy-duty parts like exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, mufflers, etc., then this is a great option as well. Made out of the finest steel grade, it ensures quality served.
Well, as I talked earlier as well about this steel grade, you get an unmatched strength with it. Among all the steels, this is the material that you can reliably use in the automotive industry.
Now, when we look at the ID-OD connection, it is a slip fit. There is a compression slit used as a compliment. Now, just like our first product, this band clamp also distributes the forces all around evenly. Thus, there is leakage prevention and great connection ensured.
Now, when it comes to the lap joints, mostly it is to connect standard pipes with flex pipes. So, you have to keep the purpose in mind.
To top that off, all the parts of this clamp or of pretty good quality. So, you do not have to worry about its durability and reliability. Moreover, this clamp is reusable, and you can even remove it quite easily. Also, the installation is pretty easy.
Thus, this exhaust clamp can turn out to be very helpful for a number of your jobs. So, if you like it, go for it.
Pros
- The high-grade steel does the job quite well
- The load gets evenly distributed for better results
- This clamp is pretty easy to install
- The design brings robustness and durability
Cons
- The price would be slightly higher.
4. Best for Universal Fitment: SYKRSS Lap Joint Band Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: ESPEEDER
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 14.07 ounces
- Joint Type: Lap
- Package Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.2 x 3.4 inches
- Style: Band Clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Material: Top-notch
Handling: Easy
Next on the list is our very own ESPEEDER. Offering five different sizes can solve a lot of your problems related to clamping use. Like, when it comes to compatibility, you can use it for a lot of purposes as well – exhaust tips, mufflers, racing exhaust, etc.
Now, there are two things. The first one is about the equal distribution of load, whereas the second one is about good balance to avoid distortion. This exclusively designed clamp for exhaust pipes covers both aspects beautifully.
Another interesting thing about this product is the no-welding design. It ensures a pretty fast, accurate, and relatively easy installation to make life easy. Just like that, you can remove the clamp any time and reuse it whenever you want.
There is a nut bar, bolts, another nut bar, and then screws; pretty simple, right? So, handling this type of clamp is a pretty easy thing. I’m sure that you will enjoy it.
All in all, it’s a great product for your needs because it covers all the necessary aspects beautifully. Now, if you purchase it and face any problem while handling/installing it, then you can contact customer care because they are always ready to solve your problems.
Pros
- Great customer service
- Good reliability owing to the features
- Highly durable due to the robust material
- Universal fitment owing to the great fitting ability
Cons
- The hardware can be further improved.
5. Best for Innovative Technology: Roadformer Butt Joint Exhaust Band Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: Roadformer
- Material: Aluminized Steel
- Item Weight: 1.15 pounds
- Joint Type: Butt
- Package Dimensions: 3 x 2.5 x 3 inches
- Style: Band Clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A
Design: A+
Material: Medium
Handling: Easy
Moving forward, we have something made out of aluminized steel. Now, what’s that? Well, it is basically steel with a coating of aluminum over it. This coating, if removed, can cause rusting as well. So, you should use an exhaust clamp warper to protect from rusting.
Remember that nothing is better than stainless steel. These inventions would do the job at a relatively lower price, but stainless steel is unmatched, especially when it is 304-grade.
Now, speaking of this aluminized material, one thing that I can assure you is that it is the best of its kind. This is because it performs very well. So, for the price, you get a pretty good value.
To top that off, let’s talk about its sealing ability. Well, clamps are mostly used to avoid leakage. Its high-strength material with high-quality bolts ensures great sealing.
Now, one thing that I mentioned about this product is its innovative technology. It is actually about reaction block technology. Simply put, you get great protection with it.
Moreover, when it comes to the reliability of this product, you will be surprised to know that this product passed 100 hours salt spray test and also proved to be anti-corrosive.
Other than that, you know about the even distribution of load. So, I will highly recommend you consider this product as well.
Pros
- Innovative technology for protection
- Highly durable product against corrosion
- The cost is pretty good, and you get value for money
- Good load distribution owing to the design
Cons
- Not as good as stainless steel
6. Best Stainless-Steel U-Bolt: TOTALFLOW Exhaust Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: TOTALFLOW
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 5.43 ounces
- Joint Type: Bolted
- Package Dimensions: 3.25 x 0.63 x 2.88 inches
- Style: U-type
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A
Design: B+
Material: Top-notch
Handling: Medium
Now, you might be looking for a U-bolt made out of the best material. Well, congratulations because this is the stuff that you’re waiting for. Made of 304 stainless steel, this U-bolt type exhaust clamp is a whole new thing for you.
Many factors make this product stand out among its kind of products. If you want to seal exhaust pipes, mufflers, elbow joints, etc., then this is the product to go for.
304 stainless steel makes it very robust and a great choice for exhaust clamps. The chromium and nickel content in excessive amounts is actually responsible for the incredible durability.
Now, if we come onto the U-bolt type, we know that this is not like a band clamp, and it has a different working phenomenon. This is because it actually hits up for sealing at concentrated force application, unlike band clamp, which distributes the load all around.
So, talking of all the aspects, if you are looking for a U-bolt clamp for your vehicle, then this is one of the best options for you. Therefore, go for it if you want to. Otherwise, there are more options ahead.
Pros
- The clamp provides a really good fit
- The compatibility of this product is pretty good
- The sealing ability is pretty good
- The material takes things to a whole new level.
Cons
- Not a uniform load distribution
7. Best Saddle U-Bolt: Walker 35774 Exhaust Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: Walker
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 7.8 ounces
- Joint Type: Bolted
- Package Dimensions: 6.3 x 5.6 x 0.9 inches
- Style: U-style
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: B+
Design: B
Material: Medium
Handling: Medium
Next up, we have another U-bolt for clamping. Well, this seems to be a bit old school, but it is pretty robust to meet the expectations (if you have any).
Firstly, you get all the installation clamps along with the product. This makes the installation a piece of cake for you. Moreover, these types of clamps are neither too tough nor too easy to deal with.
Thus, you can deal with it interestingly. Now, talking about clamps, what usually comes to mind is the sealing ability, installation, durability, and overall functionality.
When you ask for the sealing ability of this clamp, it turns out to be a pretty effective product. Other than that, when it comes to the installation, handling and installing becomes pretty easy with all the available parts and methodology.
Moreover, it is made of a good-quality metal that is robust as well as functional, thus making it a pretty effective and reliable product.
When it comes to the price, it is relatively higher than the other products of its kind. So, in this scenario, performance plays an important role because no one pays extra for anything special.
Pros
- The material is durable, and the construction is robust
- The clamp ensures a good sealing
- The handling is pretty easy.
- The design seems a bit different yet good.
Cons
- The diameter of the U-bolt is low
8. Best Narrow Band Clamp: BLACKHORSE-RACING Accuseal Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: BLACKHORSE
- Material: T409 Steel
- Item Weight: 6.74 ounces
- Joint Type: Butt
- Package Dimensions: 5.04 x 2.91
- Style: Narrowband clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: B+
Design: A
Material: Good
Handling: Medium level
On the next spot, we have something by BLACKHORSE. It is a very different design from the other products on my list. It comes in the midway. I mean that it has neither a wideband nor a U-type design. But it does the job. I think this is what matters.
So, let’s get into the details of this product. The first thing is regarding the size. Remember that clamps have to hold the connection and ensure good sealing. There is a very thin line between a good fit and a bad fit. Therefore, you should buy the perfect size by spending some time on measurements.
When it comes to the compatibility of this clamp, you can simply connect a lot of stuff with it – like exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converters, etc. The great design of this clamp will not distort or damage your exhaust connections rather add value to it.
Although it is a narrow band, it also distributes the load quite effectively all around. That means you do not have to worry about the uneven handling issue.
Lastly, the material used in it is T409 Stainless Steel. Well, it can not compete with the grade 304 steel. But still, it handles its work quite well.
Pros
- Provides good handling owing to the design
- Distributes the load evenly all around
- The design makes it pretty durable
- The installation is not a big deal
Cons
- The material is not as good as the top-grade steel
9. Best for Durability: Roadformer Lap Joint Exhaust Band Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: Roadformer
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 1 pound
- Joint Type: Lap Joint
- Package Dimensions: 6.22 x 3.3 x 4.5 inches
- Style: Band Clamp
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A
Design: A
Material: Good
Handling: Easy
Then comes another one by Roadformer. One thing is for sure here. I highly recommend the products by Roadformer. They work very well, and people like them a lot.
This one is different than the previous one. Here’s why!
First off, when it comes to the joint type, it has a lap joint. While the previous one contained a butt joint. Now, the difference between butt and lap joints lies in operating and handling. Other than that, the functionality is pretty much the same; connecting exhaust pipes.
The high-grade material with high-quality nuts and bolts used in it ensures a pretty robust connection. You get a very good sealing, and the problem gets solved.
Moreover, do not worry about the durability of this product. You can rely on it owing to its robust material and design. This product has passed tough corrosion tests to prove that it’s worth using. So, give it a shot!
Lastly, as it is clear from the design, it is a band clamp. Thus, it will evenly distribute the load all around.
Pros
- The product has a good compatibility range
- the durability is pretty high
- It ensures good sealing overall
- The clamping ensures a good load distribution
Cons
- You have to make sure the right fitting; otherwise, you may face issues
10. Best Value: Walker 35335 Exhaust Clamp
Specifications
- Brand: Walker
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Joint Type: Bolted
- Package Dimensions: 4.2 x 3.4 x 0.9 inches
- Style: U-type
Decision-Making Factors
Durability: A
Design: B
Material: Normal
Handling: Medium level
You might be looking for a cheaper option as well. Here you go! This is the clamp that you can get at a pretty good price. Well, do not think that it is a bad product. On the contrary, it is pretty amazing owing to all the features that it has.
This clamp ensures a pretty good and leak-free connection. Thus, it makes life easier by solving that problem.
Not only that, the material is good enough to do the job. Although it is not the best, you can rely on it. When we compare it to the price, it is a good deal. So, you get good value for the money you pay.
It comes with all the accessories that a clamp includes. Thus, it allows you to do a comfortable installation. So, if you are looking for something like this at a good price, then you should not miss it. This is a great product keeping in view the scenarios. I would also recommend it.
Pros
- The price is pretty good
- You get good value for the money
- The product is durable to hold the connection
- The installation is easy
Cons
- The overall quality is superficial
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQS
I will add some frequently asked questions now to answer your general queries.
Should we use exhaust clamps?
They are pretty good to avoid leaks and perform the job well. If you use them, they will certainly add value to the system.
Where should exhaust clamps be placed?
You can place it where you want to have the connection or secure it.
Are exhaust clamps necessary?
They play a good role in making the connections more robust. So, you should use them.
How long do exhaust clamps last?
If we talk about miles, then they will last from 30,000 to roughly around 400,000 miles.
Can you cut the exhaust clamp?
Yes, you can, but it depends on your expertise as well. Otherwise, you can damage them.
Which exhaust clamp is good?
A band-type clamp is my favorite. It evenly divides the load all around. Other than that, you can also get a U-clamp depending on the compatibility and need.
What is a lap joint exhaust clamp?
It is a simple and effective joint to not only install but also function properly.
Wrapping Up
I have tried to equip you with all the necessary information that you should know before buying this product. Now, it is up to you to decide what you want. I suggest you never settle for something that you are not comfortable with. Just remember the buyer’s guide and the reviews before making a decision.
If you liked our products and have something to share with us, then do mention that in the comment section below. Good luck with the purchasing phase. Have a great day!