[...trimmed text...]

Okay, Jamey, I've donned my flame-retardant 'onesie', and I'm ready to ask the question that's been bugging me for a couple of days.

What you have called a 'tamper', I would have called a righteous field repair, and 'Passed' it visually, almost without hesitation.

My reasoning:

Spark plug boots are made of high quality silicone, the same stuff used for fuel tank o-rings and valve cover gaskets, and known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to heat and hydrocarbons. If it fit properly, I have little doubt that it would perform its new duty flawlessly, probably for longer than the original piece. To me, a hose is a part designed to durably carry liquid and/or vapor from one end to the other, with no significant leaks or restrictions. This is my interpretation of SGRG Appendix G, Category I.

Why should it matter from where it came, and what did you use to replace it, to clear the 'tamper' to your satisfaction?

I'm ready for my beating now ... green light, everyone!

Sincerely,

Michael Barry
Technician
Quick Stop Smog & More
Sacramento, California, USA