1991 Volvo sedan 240 147,500 miles

A slight hole has worn through the metal hose going to what I think is the air box. I am wondering A) if this is a problem and B) is there a quick repair with tape, etc, or must I replace the entire hose. I'm leaving on Sunday to move from Vermont to San Francisco, and I am going to make a road trip out of it, so I'm just trying to take care of any possible glitches to minimize possible roadside repairs.

In addition, I noticed some oil accumulating on the steering column. Also there is some oil above the drain pan. I measured my oil a couple of days ago (it has been 2,500 miles since I've changed it) and it was about a 1/4 of the way above minimum--so it doesn't seem to be a large leak, but I am wondering if you guys have any idea where it might be coming from and if it is something that should be taken care of fairly soon.

Thanks for your help,

Jimmy