I think we first need to determine which "hose" we are talking about.

Are you talking about the corrugated metal hose ~2" diameter hose that runs from the exhaust manifold, across the front of the engine under the radiator and connects to the airbox. IF this is your hose, then it really isnt needed, it just supplies warm air to the intake upon start up to assist with emissions and maybe something else... None of my cars have them. It typically breaks down and becomes disconnected as you described.

Any other intake hose is absolutely able to be replaced by you. Typically just a few hose clamps and then just put it back together like it was originally.

Flame trap can be cumbersome depending on how big your fingers are. But really nothing to it... just disconnect a few hoses and install the new components.

Follow this link to the 700/900 FAQ. A large portion of the information in the FAQ pertains to the 240 as well.

http://www.brickboard.com/FAQ/700-900/EngineSealsBeltsVent.htm#Flame_Trap_Crankcase_Ventilation_Questions





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