So recently my 97 Escort started smelling like gas and when the tank is full it would be leaking gas near the gas tank. I found that the rubber hose that connects the filer neck to the tank was cracked and leaking. So after some work I was able to remove it. However, the 1 and 3/4" hose that is recommended to replace it is going to be IMPOSSIBLE to get back on. I've tried Vaseline on the inside of the tube, and on the opening of the tank and I just can't get it to go on. And even if I were able to get it on, its going to be near impossible to get it to bend enough to go onto the filler neck.
So couple questions. Is there a better fit hose for this? And will I need to remove the filer neck to get it to fit on there once it's on the tank?
Any other advice on how to replace this hose?
Edit: Oh and I even pulled out my heat gun and heated up the end of the hose. No cigar.
Edit 2: And BTW, I called the Ford dealership, the oem part was only made for those couple of years, not made anymore. There is one being sold on Amazon that looks like it will fit, that looks more made to fit and looks thinner and easier to fit on, but one of the reviews showed pictures of it failing fantastically after about 3 months. Motorcraft KFL22 Fuel Line Assembly
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V52EV2..._D1I4zb9GX50C6