Fuel line work around needed

[SJ]

Patient: 88 5kq

The rubber/plastic fuel line connections at the accumulator have rusted out
and are leaking.

I had the same problem on my 90 100q.
I purchased both hoses - the long one from the fuel tank to the accumulator,
and the short one from the accumulator to the adjacent metal fuel line.

The problem lies with the fuel tank to accumulator hose. I cannot snake a
the new hose over the top of the tank. I did all that was suggested last
time, and still cannot do it. I dont feel like dropping the tank . .tooooo
much work.

My solution last time was:
- to remove the end connectors from the audi hose
- snake a 150 psi rubber fuel hose from accumulator to tank
- attach the end connectors(barb fittings) and secure with fuel hose clamps

What I want to try this time is:
- cut off the connector at the accumulator end of the old hose.
- attach a new connector to the old hose, maybe use a double ended barb
fitting to extend the hose

THE PROBLEM
The problem is that the audi hose is composed of an inner tube made from
some hard plastic and an outer rubber covering. Its impossible to press in
the barb fitting into the hose.

I'm not sure how audi assembled the end fitting to the plastic hose. Shrink
fit?

I'm thinking of heating up the plastic hose and the barb fitting, and then
pressing the hot barb fitting into the plastic hose. I would add fuel hose
clamps also.

Has anyone done anything similar?

SJ
85 Dodge PU, D-250, 318, auto
85 Audi 4k - - sold but still on the road
88 Audi 5kq
90 Audi 100q