Exhaust band clamps, general (fitment) question

[KevinK7]

Question on band clamps, specifically SUMMIT brand if anyone has used them. Do they normally go on easy?
I've never used them before, and wasn't expecting to 'fight' with them to get over the pipe ; )

Since there doesn't appear to be dropdown pipes available for a 396 with factory manifolds (and no local shop with a mandrel bender) I'm starting to gather exhaust parts for my truck (68 C20 Utility, 396 w/ factory manifolds).
I'm planning to go with 2.5" system, I placed an order with Summit for a pair of FLowMaster FlowFX mufflers, some 2.5" (lap joint) band clamps, etc.
Link to band clamps: https://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-681250

The parts arrived and it was nearly impossible to get the band clamps on the muffler. I had the nuts backed out to all but 2-3 threads and still could not get the clamps in place.
Eventually by removing the bolts, spreading the band around the muffler/pipe, 'clamping' it with large pliers, I was able to get it.

This may be normal, I don't know, but hoping others can shed some light.


Thanks,

Kevin








Apparently I'm not the first person to run into this...