i have figured out that to replace my radiator hoses, from radiator stub
hoses through the plastic hoses to the stub hoses coming off the
distribution t and engine, would cost me somewhere north of $475 in
parts alone.  that, as we say in california, is a NOT.

taking peter krough's excellent example, i checked in to buying shields
no. 250 wet exhaust hose with 1.25 in inside diameter, wire reinforced.
at roughly $7/foot (including tax), getting more than enough (30 feet)
will only set me back $210, and i will have some excess for emergency
hose repairs.  as well, i plan to cut up the good parts of the plastic
hose to use as connectors in case of emergency.

since i am unsure the hose will hold shape (the curves matching stock
hoses) given temperature changes and vibration as i use our van, i was
thinking i would bend the hoses and then wrap them in the same
fiberglass wrapping folk are using on their exhaust headers.  that stuff
sets up stiff, right?  it'll also add protection and a bit of
insulation, especially on the radiator return stub pipe near the
engine.  any thoughts or warnings for me before i proceed?

thanks in advance.

bill
'87 syncro westfalia