2009 Cobalt 2.2L

Anyone know why this coolant recovery line includes a metal segment in the middle?

My pipe mysterious grew a hole, leaked coolant for hours (or even days) and the car started to overheat on the expressway. Found it and put in a temporary measure to close the leak. But now I need to refill the system and I'm trying to figure out why I shouldn't replace the entire line with a single rubber hose, which would cost less for a quality hose (<$5) than buying a replacement OEM part ($40).

Image credit to WhiteSSBalt (C) 2008. Using just for quick discussion reference.

 

That sucks I would replace it with the oem hose imo...

 

Yup i agree with superbolt it may have to be due to heat thats why its not all rubber but i could be wrong

 

Ya could of just been a faulty part from factory.

 

If you're cheap, you could probably plug it up with some solder or brazing.

I don't see anything wrong with a rubber hose though. Its not like they use the metal section to wick away heat.

 

The metal was probably done due to a rubber hose wearing through on the other parts in the area. There should be plenty of those metal lines available used, I could look and see if I have one, i'm sure I do.

But a rubber hose would work just fine from a function point, just make sure it's not rubbing on anything.

 

1 more thought on replacing the metal pipe. Be wary of the metal you choose otherwise you'll end up with a galvanic corrosion problem.

 

Ditto. That is why I do not want to replace it with just any metal pipe. If I want to replace it with metal I'll just buy a new OEM replacement.

But used works also! Anyone have a used one for sale LMK.

Thank you all for the strong responses.

 

Why not go to a salvage/wreaker yard and get one?

 

Excellent investigation. Just finished fix. Used 2” high temp/high pressure tubing, and 2 hose clamps. Guided metal portion away from air intake cover. Reservoir tank now releasing pressure, sure missed hearing pressure relief when removing cap. Car not heating up to 215F+ when first starting, idling at 185F now.
Great writeup and excellent investigation! Would love to help if you ever hit another roadblock.