Not too easy to describe, but this is one of those 'why didn't I think of that?' devices. It allows you to easily and reliably make temporary (or permanent) replacements for hose clamps (Jubilee clips) or similar parts, by tensioning a lengths of wire wrapped around the joint, and then securing the ends easily and neatly. Each tool comes with a small roll of stainless steel wire (and an instruction leaflet) but you can use any suitable wire which comes to hand. I have a small roll of stainless MIG wire to use with it which is strong enough, but very 'springy' and so not too easy to handle - a roll of stainless lockwire would probably be much more suitable.
No point in writing lots about this great little tool, a glance around the websites listed below will tell you all you need to know. Suffice to say that while it looks like something you might buy from the shopping channel on the haunted fishtank, it does its job simply and easily and I regard it as money well spent. Definitely one for the 'in car' toolbox.
The Manufacturers Website : www.clamptool.com
I bought mine from the very helpful guys at Anderson Products Co. in Alaska. Ordering was easy, shipping was a few dollars and delivery was very fast.
I've used it a few times, and each time it has proved its worth. The only failures I've had were due to inadequate wire, where the stainless MIG wire I was using proved too springy to handle easily.
(Artcile date approximate due to website updates)