62 Falcon Heater Repairs/Refurbish

[RCH62Falcon]

Pulled the heater plenum out to replace the leaky heater core yesterday. Noticed that the heater inlet collar had completely disentergrated over the years. Looking up the replacement part, I find that the oval shapped rubber ring sells for about $50. Anyone else "fabricated" a replacement idea for this?
It just looks like any type of flexiable seal would work. I'm thinking just a fabricated piece of HVAC ductwork would do. Anyone else ever substituted the original collar ring with an alternative? I can re-use the clamp rings so attatchment is no problem. Just trying to drum up an idea...after all...I'm on a tight budget these days.

[froggerxt]

What I did was find a Truck Innertube and cut a piece about the same length.
Then I got some Glue and sealed it around the clamps and let it dry.
Cost maybe $10
Still working and I kept the tube for future repairs.

Love it when guys think for themselves.

See if it works for you.

Jerry

[RCH62Falcon]

Thanks for the suggestion. I found a "flexible pipe connector" which is perfect. It measures 6" X 4" and is almost like the original. Cost $12 at the hardware store. Found it in the pipe and plumbing section.