Little did I know that the stock upper hose (124,000+ miles) on my 2003 WRX sedan (with OEM style Mishimoto radiator) would expand during use and get in the way of the radiator fan . Blade. Over time this affected the hose and I got a leak (1st photo). As another reviewer mentioned, the cropping "was" necessary for an optimal fit. The length of the top hose as is freed the straps, but the hose was repositioned directly in the path of the radiator fan. Some blue masking tape came out and I masked off part of the side of the radiator for a clean cut with a utility knife; Figures 2 and 3 show the difference between standard and cut lengths (since I didn't measure). This will ensure the hose is securely aligned in the center of the belts and radiator fans as shown in pic 4. The lower radiator hose could be better. from cropping as seen in photo 5; The extra length has flattened the hose down due to the rounding. If we don't have problems with hydrodynamics, the tube stays as it is. 4 stars only because of the equipment. Mishimoto Black Silicone Hose Kit MMHOSE-WRX-01BK