I recently installed the trim actuator and I have a question about the collar that goes around the trim actuator tube right above the trim actuator motor.

Since this has a hose clamp around it, I assume that it is supposed to clamp down on the tube to provide stability at the fixed end attach point when the trim actuator is activated.

With the hose clamp tightened all the way and the gap in the collar is closed, my collar is still loose on the trim actuator tube. Do I need to remove material from the collar to make a wider gap so with the hose clamp tightened up, the collar grips the tube?

Also, what have people done to dress up the excess band sticking out form the hose clamp.

Thanks!