I would agree that this plastic fuel nipple (located on the firewall of all
waterboxer Vanagons) is a hazard.  I have had then crack and break many
times.  I recommend removing this piece no matter if you have a Tiico or a
waterboxer.  Just run the hose directly to the plastic line coming from the
gas tank (another couple of inches) and then put something around the hose as
it goes through the firewall (a piece of plastic or rubber) to prevent
chaffing.  The return hose to the gas tank is setup this way.  I have no idea
why they put this plastic piece in the system but it is a known failure
point.

Thanks,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
http://www.vanagain.com
Phone: (856)-765-1583
Fax: (856)-327-2242