I'm doing a rack replacement and having trouble getting the rubber return hose off the valve housing where it's mated. I loosened the clamp (see the photo), but even though the hose is rubber, it's pretty darn stiff and I can't move it. I was finally able to crack the 17mm fitting so I'll be able to remove the rack, but then that fitting is still going to be stuck in the rubber hose and it's going to be a bear to either pull it off the hose after the rack is out, or torque it down because the rubber hose is too large to get my line wrenches or crows foot wrench around.

Any suggestions on how to soften up the rubber hose to get the fitting out would be more than appreciated.


This is a view from the top of the weird clamp to the right of which is where the end of the hose meets the fitting on the rack. The flare nut fitting is to the right of the clamp but it's dirty in this photo.

 

^
It appears like the #31 (below graphic) is the 17mm fitting in question? That 'barb' at the end looks pretty large; therefore, getting it out of the old crispy rubber hose may be a challenged without the help of a razor knife?

Maybe 'while you are there' the almost 20 y/o factory # 32; 53734-SEP-A12 Hose, Power Steering Return ; Lower Return Hose should be replaced?
It looks like an aftermarket $15.51 Sunsong one can be had at rockauto since it appears the OEM is 'currently unavailable' if need be?
53734-SEP-A12 Genuine Acura Power Steering Return Hose



Good Luck!

 

Thx, and yes, that's the problem child in question. Using a regular 17mm wrench, I was able to crack it and get the 'barb fitting thingy' (technical term) off the rack while still stuck in the hose. I don't think there's any way of getting it out of of the hose unless I cut it out. Gonna try to work the 'barb' back in once the new rack is in place.