BottomHose Coupling Seal

[Pugant06]

So after nearly 7 dry years of ownership my Pug has developed a slight water leak from lower water hose coupling at the radiator. It's the 'spring clip' type of coupling and I intend to replace O ring seal soon. However, I understand that corrosion on bottom hose sleeve might be reason for leak and not seal itself. So question is, has anyone reassembled one of these joints successfully with a generous smear of silicone compound either side of the seal? A new bottom hose is not cheap!!!!