Changing boost hoses - bumper off job?

[John A]

I am considering changing out the rubber boost hoses for a Forge silicone kit. I have a 2016 CAAC 140bhp T6 (the last of the non-Adblue versions).
Do I need to remove the bumper to get to the hoses? It's my least favourite job and not something I want to repeat, as I couldn't line it up properly again.

Sorry if the question has been asked - I've looked through the threads and couldn't find one that explicitly answered the question, as the threads I found concern removing/replacing the intercooler.

 

[DXX]

I’ve not tried it but it must be infinitely easier to remove the bumper, two people is advisable for refitting the bumper.
Are the hoses at end of life after 9 years? I also have a 2016 Euro 5.

 

[John A]

I've only taken it off once to replace the headlights and found it impossible to remove the clip/plastic rivet inside the arch without destroying it and then after couldn't line it up properly. I also broke one of the mounts for attaching the front corner of the bumper to the wing. I am not usually as ham fisted or heavy handed, but I don't trust myself.
The bumper needs some paint so I might see if the paint shop will let me do the boost pipes if they remove it.
Are they end of life - pass - I've had silicone before on previous vehicles and think (whether true or not) they are less prone to expanding under pressure and give some performance gain, even if it is only in my head.

 

[DXX]

I've had silicone before on previous vehicles and think (whether true or not) they are less prone to expanding under pressure and give some performance gain, even if it is only in my head.

Maybe they don’t expand as much as OEM but I’d bet my last quid there’s no performance change.
I’ve seen intercooler hoses fail at about 15 year / 200K miles.
I do remember reading recently that OEM and aftermarket connections tolerances have some variations so connection to the intercooler can result in some difficulties.

 

[JumpShip]

How do the forge hoses connect?
The stock hoses can be fitted with the bumper connected but the knack is trying not to screw the O-ring up when pushing it into place .

 

[John A]

They look to have an OEM fitting on them