How does this come off?

[Johnnybee]

I'm replacing a radiator on a Fiat Ducato and the hard plastic coolant pipe elbows need to be removed from the old radiator and reused on the new one. They have what looks like a stainless spring on each side but pushing them in doesn't release the pipe as I expected. Am I doing something wrong or just not using enough force?

[Turn7]

TBH, that looks like a stainless crimp to me....

[GreenV8S]

Turn7 said:

TBH, that looks like a stainless crimp to me....

Looks like that to me, too. I haven't seen one in the flesh, but based on that picture I guess you need to either cut the metal strap, or un-crimp it, to free the elbow.

[Hammer67]

I once changed a rad on a Fiat Doblo and had the same issue with the hoses where they attached to the rad.

IIRC they had a similar clip, I butchered them getting them off and had to replace the hoses as the clips were only sold with hoses.

I think pushing them in is the correct way to release them but, the pipes are stuck on.

I think there is probably a rubber O ring in there sealing things.

In your shoes OP, I'd persevere with the aid of WD40 and some gentle leverage.

[HustleRussell]

What an abominable piece of crap.

This is exactly why you shouldn’t buy French or Italian.

Surely not single use crimp integral with plastic pipe. Probably ‘special tool’ required a.k.a. some pliers, a flat blade screwdriver and swearing.

[Johnnybee]

Sorted it.

You do indeed push the metal clips in as well as pull with all your strength at the same time. I suspect there have been a few people found unconscious along with a broken nose next to these radiators

It wasn't much easier to fit to the new radiator either.

[Mignon]

It can't possibly have been a crimp on hard plastic. Hard plastic doesn't compress. Crimps are used on rubber hoses.

[DVandrews]

Normally an O ring supplies the seal, the clip ensures the hose doesnt slip back over the O ring and allows it to clip into place.

Dave