I've read about the metal inserts in the ends of the plastic tubes, but have
never been there to see them until today. Replacing both forward radiator
hoses, where the lower hose aft end connects, the tube is barbed in the
plastic itself, metal sleeve inside the tube. On the upper hose aft end,
from the un-barbed plastic tube, a metal insert extends about 7/8" out from
the end of the tube with it's end barbed. Metal tube seems to be tight, but
original installation hose (which had started to leak) was clamped further
back on the plastic, which fits the hose better, without the benefit of the
barb. Seems that it would be placing a lot of faith in the bond between the
plastic and metal to clamp to the metal alone, but I don't know who has been
there before me during 157,000 miles. Inserts are in good shape, not rusted
or collapsed. Any insight?
Thanks, Dave