Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector for joining flexible tubular members. The connector has a cylindrical body having an outer diameter and at least one circumferential recess. At least one barb member is positioned and retained at least partially in the recess. The barb member has first and second ends with at least one of the ends having a diameter which extends beyond the outer diameter of the tubular body. The first end has a diameter which is greater than that of the second end and a rigid edge for engaging a flexible tubular member. The barb member provided with the connector can resist pull-off of the tubular member from the connector. The present invention also relates to a method for forming such a connector.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fuel injector post for connecting a fuel injector to a fuel rail. The fuel injector post comprises a tubular body portion with a central axis having a circumferential wall, an open end and an outlet on the tubular body portion. The fuel injector post further comprises an adapter portion positioned at an angle to the central axis of the tubular body and integral with the outlet on the tubular body portion. The adapter portion has a passage in fluid communication with the tubular body portion and the fuel rail and therefore connects a fuel injector to the side of a fuel rail, which is advantageous to the engine package. Alternatively, the tubular body portion can have a closed end configured and adapted to reduce air entrapment in the tubular body portion to therefore reduce or eliminate pressure waves in the entire fuel system due to entrapped air.