1968 Beetle Heater Connectors Asbestos?

Hi folks

The ribbed connectors that connect the heater boxes to the bakelite tubes which then connect with the steel heater tubes that go through the body appear to have asbestos around the connecting flanges at each end. Anyone else with a '68 noticed that? And if so what did you do?
If I am right I have a challenge as the heater tubes available new are way too long.
Cheers.......Wayne

I believe that the cuffs indeed are asbestos. I haven't yet got to this point of reassembly of my 68.

Here's what the SAMBA says about the solution.

"I would recommend replacing the asbestos with silicone cuffs from an aircooled Vanagon because they seal better and are better for your health."

http://www.ratwell.com/technical/Heating.html

I just left them.

out

Thanks guys. Not a big fan of asbestos so leaving them in is not an option for me.
Silicon Vanagon ones would be great but I would need 4 so finding good used is also likely not going to happen. Guess that leaves me with p/n 111 819 945. I will email WCM and ask for dimensions. Another possibility is replacing the asbestos with some silicone gaskets cut from a muffin tray and re using the steel ring that holds the asbestos in place.
Cheers