Weed whacker issues

[the nature boy]

I started the weed eater yesterday and gas started dripping down. I found one of the fuel lines had split. I found some oxygen hose that I thought would work and although the proper size, it was too soft and would continue leaking where it connected. I just need to get the proper tubing. However, while messing with it I noticed what appears to be a gasket sticking out in one area, as shown in the photo behind the pull cord handle. This doesn't look quite right. It's tight and can't possible move so how did it get in this position? We went from 3 small engine shops locally to just 2 and the one no longer works on weed eaters and the other is just a 1 man shop inside a Hardware Hank and I was told it would be a 6 week wait. By then it will be just about time to get the snow blower ready. 

[RebelSS]

That's normal. One gasket may be used on a certain model carb that also fits other size engine apps. Often seen with carb rebuild kits.

[the nature boy]

It just looks to me like something is out of place. If not, I'll just get myself some tubing and go back at it. Those gas lines sure do deteriorate fast. 

[gunner55]

Unleaded gas / ethanol & sunlight dry them out pretty quickly, so they crack easily. I think Reb's right on the gasket as I recently had our small rototiller apart to replace a primer bulb, it too had cracked, & that gasket was sticking out a bit as well.

[RebelSS]

Good luck.

[Walleyehooker]

not uncommon for a gasket to be sticking out a little. If you get gas line go to a auto parts store and get the much better stuff that is yellow in color.

[the nature boy]

I stopped at a small engine shop on my way up north Monday and he confirmed what RebelSS said. I got some yellow tubing and after struggling for almost 1/2 hour, got the lines reconnected and went out and whacked some weeds. Thanks for all the replies.