Heater hose pipe nipple

[1967 satellite]

I am in the process of replacing both heater hose nipples on my 1967, 383-4V. When I removed the smaller length nipple there was a metal screen pushed into the end with about 3/4 of it extending outside the nipple. This screen was plugged with rust that was hindering flow. Anyone ever see this before? I am planning on leaving the screen out.

 

[pnora]

Looks like someone added the screen. I have never seen one from the factory.

 

[Plyrr471]

Never seen that, I would leave it out.