Abstract: An improved band clamp for securely clamping the end of a flexible hose to one of at least a rigid pipe, a cast outlet of a radiator, a charge air cooler and a turbocharger in order to prevent fluid communication between the two. The improved band clamp includes a clamp band which is configured to circumvent a substantial portion of the hose. The clamp band defines first and second ends, each of which is defined by a terminal portion of the clamp band folded over on itself to define a double thickness, and then formed in an arcuate configuration away from the center of the clamp band. A spline is provided for being received between each of the first and second ends of the clamp band. First and second spacers are provided on the outer sides of the clamp band first and second ends. The first spacer, each of the first and second clamp band ends, and the spline each define an opening to cooperatively receive a bolt. The second spacer defines a threaded opening to receive the bolt in threaded engagement.

Abstract: A thermal expansion connection for rigid pipes in low-pressure applications subject to thermal expansion and shrinkage. The connection is formed between the distal end of a first rigid pipe received within the proximal end of a second rigid pipe. At least one seal is disposed between the first and second rigid pipes to prevent fluid communication through the connection. The second rigid pipe defines a collar at the proximal end thereof for receiving the distal end of the first rigid pipe and the seals. The first rigid pipe distal end defines a radial recess for receiving and maintaining the position of each seal. A gap is defined between the first rigid pipe distal end and the second rigid pipe collar to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the first and second rigid pipes.

Abstract: A thermal expansion connection for rigid pipes in low-pressure applications subject to thermal expansion and shrinkage. The connection is formed between the distal end of a first rigid pipe received within the proximal end of a second rigid pipe. At least one seal is disposed between the first and second rigid pipes to prevent fluid communication through the connection. The second rigid pipe defines a collar at the proximal end thereof for receiving the distal end of the first rigid pipe and the seals. The first rigid pipe distal end defines a radial recess for receiving and maintaining the position of each seal. A gap is defined between the first rigid pipe distal end and the second rigid pipe collar to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the first and second rigid pipes.

Abstract: A cross member is provided for mounting between a first channeled beam and an opposed second channeled beam located in a fixed position relative to the first channeled beam. The cross member comprises two substantially similar elongated side members. Each of the side members includes a secured end wall and an opposed mating end wall. The secured end wall defines apertures adapted to align with apertures defined in one of the channeled beams. The mating end wall defines a surface that defines an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the side member.

Abstract: A device and method for coupling a rigid pipe to a flexible hose. The device for coupling a rigid pipe to a flexible hose is designed for use in low pressure applications whereby fluid communication between the rigid pipe and the flexible hose is prevented. The coupling of the present invention includes a clamping ring. After assembly of the coupling using the method of the present invention, a terminal end of the flexible hose is interposed between the terminal end of the rigid pipe and the clamping ring. Each of the rigid pipe and clamping rings is deformed to define cooperating annular rings, and to deform the flexible hose there between. Deformation of the flexible hose between the rigid pipe and clamping ring annular rings serves to form a seal to prevent fluid communication between the rigid pipe and flexible hose, and further prevents removal of the coupling. In an alternate embodiment, at least the rigid pipe is deformed to define a barbed annular ring.

Abstract: A fuel tank system includes a fuel tank defined by an external wrapper or skin within which fuel tank reinforcing support structures are incorporated, the fuel tank support structures further incorporating a tank mounting system for producing simplified mounting of the fuel tank system to a desired portion of a frame rail of a vehicle. The unibody construction produces an enhanced, significantly elevated level of ground clearance for the fuel tank system, the clearance being defined by the bottom wall surface of the fuel tank of the system.

Abstract: A self-locking vehicle routing retainer comprises a U-shaped spring steel body which is nestably engageable within a frame rail channel of a vehicle such as a truck and retained by engagement of the outturned edges of the legs of the body with the frame rail flanges. The central portion of the body includes an arched bundle attachment arm projecting away from the body. Each surface of the arch may be provided with structure to which a cable tie for holding elongated members such as wiring harnesses or brake tubing may be engaged.