About 1/4 was broken off. I krazy glued it back on but when I removed the hose it came apart again. Then I lost about 1/6 of the outer ring trying to get the end piece out. I think it fell down the hose, but I took the hose off and couldn't find it. Maybe I will get it when I do a flush this weekend. By reinforcing on the outside, you don't impede the coolant rushing it. Also clamping on the copper saves the plastic from getting crushed. I think this may hold because it's very snug. Even if the end ring falls off, I've still got the copper flashing to fall back on. It only cost $1.49 at Home Depot...but the girl just let me have it because it was late and we both didn't want to wait for a clerk to price it. Good luck.