having a problem with the lower - engine side hose leaking. Replaced hose clamp and still small drips. Need suggestions???

Are you sure it's not the water pump leaking ? Many times the pump will leak and run down the hose.

Pretty sure it's not the water pump. If I loosen the clamp it drips more.

Possibly a weak clamp ???? Did you try a new one. Usually once they're clamped, they seal. Is the hose the right size ??

Replaced the original clamp with two new ones and really tightened down on them. Drip is smaller...overnight it only dripped about the size of a dime. Never thought about the size of the hose. Good point. May try replacing the hose tonight with a new one and see what happens.

If the area the hose goes over is damaged with nicks, dings or chips or has been painted and the paint stuck to the inside of the hose you could be fighting a loosing battle!!