I have a leak at the flow control valve on the bottom heater line from the water pump at the flow control valve. Is this valve necessary? Can it be bypassed, say with a piece of stainless pipe instead of the valve? It looks like an expensive bear to replace the whole line that turns to metal at the inner fender. If it only affects how fast I get heat, I'm not really concerned. I just want to keep the motor at normal temp without a drip. It's #13 on this diagram I believe. http://shbox.com/1/heater_hoses.jpg

 

All that valve/restrictor does is to slow the flow to the heater core. This is supposed to divert more coolant through the engine and to slow down flow trough the heater core allowing it to work more efficiently. You could try cleaning the restrictor out, or just get rid of it. You will hardly notice any difference.

 

So what is the best way to get rid of it? I was thinking of running new heater hose to the water pump and splicing with stainless pipe and clamps. Any suggestions?

 

That is a good way as any, or you could replace the whole run with a heater hose, whichever looks easier.