I have a 2003 Ram Van 1500. Today I was messing with some stuff underneath. I noticed that the lines that connect the transmission fluid to the cooler on the bottom of the radiator are very loose within the screw on fittings. I took one off and the end of the tube is flared and the mating surface has an angle that I'm assuming is supposed to be a tight fit against the flare on the end of the tube. I can move the tube about 1/4 inch in and out, and it's real loose side to side too.
Weird thing is there has never been a leak, while I've had the truck. The previous owner had a new radiator put in by a mechanic. Is this the way they all are? I just can't figure out how this set up is sealing with so much play between what I'm thinking are the sealing surfaces?

Is this normal?

Here's a pic that shows what I'm looking at. Part A moves in/out by about 1/4 inch.

 

Yes it's normal. The joints are made that way so they are flexible and have a lower chance of being crimped or twisted at the bends.

 

Weird, how do they seal? Why are there flares? Is the flare in the radiator swiveling? I just can't figure it out.

 

There is an O-ring inside of it that seals the line and allows it to still move.

 

Thanks, I hope it holds, seems kind of flimsy. All the other vehicles I've had used fittings that were rigid. Seems like Dodge re-invented the wheel on this one. Never had a problem with rigid lines.