V-Band Clamps

A V-band clamp joins two pieces of tubing with one nut, seals metal to metal, and comes apart in seconds, which is why it has become the standard joint on turbo outlets, downpipes, intercooler piping and race exhausts. Radiant Speed Works stocks the Vibrant Performance V-band clamps and matching flange assemblies in stainless steel, aluminum and titanium, from small turbo outlets up to 6 inch exhaust.

Clamp and flange assemblies

A complete V-band joint is two flanges and a clamp. Vibrant sells the clamps alone for replacement and as assemblies with male and female flanges already matched to each other. The male and female profile locates the joint and seals without a gasket, and it keeps the two sides concentric so tubing lines up as it is welded.

Sizing a V-band

V-band clamps and flanges are sized to the tubing outside diameter they weld to, so a 3 inch assembly fits 3 inch O.D. tubing. Turbo-specific V-bands are a separate case. Garrett GT and GTX outlets, TiAL wastegates and other components use their own profiles, so order by the turbo or wastegate model rather than the pipe size.

Stainless, aluminum or titanium?

Stainless steel V-bands are the choice for exhaust and turbo hot side joints, where heat would soften aluminum. Aluminum V-bands are lighter and weld directly to aluminum intercooler and charge piping. Titanium flanges match titanium exhaust systems for builders chasing weight.

Quick release clamps

Quick release V-band clamps swap the threaded T-bolt for a latch, so a joint can be opened without tools. They are a good fit on race cars that pull the exhaust or turbo often, and on intercooler piping that has to come off for engine work.

Installing V-bands correctly

Tack the flanges to the tubing with the clamp installed so the joint stays aligned, then finish weld in short passes to keep the flange from distorting. Torque the clamp to the maker's spec, tapping around the band as you tighten so it seats evenly. On hot side joints, use anti-seize on the threads.

Common questions

Do V-band clamps leak? A correctly welded and seated V-band seals very well. Leaks usually come from a flange pulled out of round during welding or from mixing flanges from different makers with different profiles.

Can I reuse a V-band clamp? Yes, in most cases. Replace it if the band is stretched, the threads are galled or it no longer closes tight.

What is the difference between a V-band clamp and a band clamp? A band clamp squeezes overlapping or butted tubing, while a V-band pulls two machined flanges together, which gives a stronger, leak-free and easily serviced joint.