If there is a space between the barb and the rest of the tube, the tube
has failed and the insert is working its way out. The tube needs to be
replaced.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Milo's Kitchen
Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2003 2:22 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Rad Hose Dumb Question

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