Flexible silicone hoses vs flexible aluminium ducting hoses

[Amateb8]

The aluminium flexible ducting hose that connects the manifold to the air filter in my Bis has deteriorated once again. I managed to temporarily fix the hose prior to Brooklands. Before I invest in buying a new aluminium hose, should I buy a silicone hose instead? Will the silicone hose withstand the heat from the manifold? As Fiat stopped manufacturing the "sleeve" that connects the manifold to the air filter some years ago, what does other Bis owners use?

[Hazey-n-Marc]

I think the silicone will suffer, I don't know how much flex is needed (Mine hasn't got one, or the original airfilter). Would a flexible exhaust section work?

[Amateb8]

The aluminium flexible ducting hose works pretty well but has limited life. I was wondering whether there is a much better alternative.

I read somewhere that the hot air that is pumped into the air filter box via the suction from the carb affect the performance of the car.

[Hazey-n-Marc]

It stops the carb freezing in cold weather. Don't believe it is needed in hot weather, I have removed it in the past (on a non fiat) due to excessive fuel evaporation in hot weather.

[ciaoflyer]

Originally it is not aluminum, it is a strange material that I cannot get from anywhere!  Anyway I have never had it fitted and my Bis has never suffered!

If you want a photo of the original I can post!

[Amateb8]

I think the originial "sleeve" is a metal braided hose. I still have the other end (original) that is connected to the manifold to the bodywork/vent.