Anyone ever eliminate the REST system? I never use it, and likely never will as the climate where I live is very mild. The small hose super close to the header has always made me a little concerned about failing due to heat exposure.

Presumably, the REST pump pulls coolant through the small hose when the engine is off to perform it's residual heating function?

A rat got into my garage and nibbled this hose, so I either need to replace it or bypass it.

Thanks for any help!