tips for removing silicone vacuum line
 

I'm attempting to remove the one-way check valve between the intake manifold and the purge control solenoid to hopefully fix the raw gas smell I'm getting at the rear of the car as per this thread https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generati...ssion-1152638/

Having a heck of a time getting the valve out from the one side (input side). The check valve has a pretty long nipple and it's in there really good. And of course, there's very limited space to get ahold of it w/o removing a bunch of other stuff. I've tried twisting the line to break it free but no go so far. Is it a bad idea to apply some WD40 or soap and allow it to seep in to get it lubed a bit? Other tricks you guys can share?

Thanks -Randy

You can stick a pick in the end and work it around or squeeze the hose with your fingers and then twist the check valve and pull without allowing the line to move. You can also just cut it

+1 if it doesn't want to come off, usually a little twist will break it free, or you need leverage between the hose and whatever it goesinta

If it's that hard, I'd replace the hoses. Might not seal well after removal and reinstall.

Try giving it a squirt with some silicone spray, it's not harsh like WD40 can be on the lines. It's also great when you're re-installing the lines as it dries quickly and allows the hose to grip naturally.

thanks for the help guys. Will keep working it and go to the silicone if needed

It used to be a thing to glue the hoses when you got a "tie wrap" job years ago. You may need to cut it, clean up the nipple, and replace with fresh. In most cases, glue isn't necessary, and heck even the tie wrap (zip tie) isn't either if you're using good silicone hose.

P

Insert a screwdriver between the hose end and check valve and give it a light pry. Pulling on silicone lines can sometimes be like a chinese finger trap in that it starts to grip harder the more you pull. Pushing on the end bunches it up and it expands the inner diameter little bit.

thanks again. No evidence of being glued based on the line I removed from the output side. Both ends were zip tied by the crew at KD Rotary back in the day. I've tried prying with a screwdriver and got some movement but geez these things are crazy tight and the nipple is a good 1/2 inch long. I was wondering if heating up the line would soften it? Then again the silicone might get stickier? Might have to be my next move...

I would try the pick to open the end up a bit, and squirt some silicone lube or WD40 in there as others mentioned. Let it marinate a bit, then try to twist & pull it off.

Also, I normally don't use these when the hose nipples are made of plastic for fear of crunching the nipple, but as a last resort, hose pliers might help if used gently. Something like these in the smallest opening size might work: https://www.harborfreight.com/3-piec..._q=hose+pliers

at some point you should just replace it, and cut the old one off..