more replies! Sorry that I didn't notice guys, I figured the forum would email me.
So, there's been developments; the turbo hose started leaking again at the end of this week (my wife is unsurprisingly sensitized to hissing noises now), so I did the full fix today; pulled off the resonator box, got the seals for both ends, and reassembled properly (one hopes). Old seals were utterly rooted, big holes in both, and I could pull the resonator box up and down one handed. Much better now, with the new seals and doing up the metal bands, the tube feels like a solid unit. Doing up the metal band on the top was no picnic, I ended up needing a 1/4 inch ratchet. I've re-added the zip tie underneath for insurance purposes, but it looks to me like the hose ought to stay together due to the metal bands, at least until the seals perish again.
I'll give it a couple of days, the pull off again, inspect, and replace the zip tie with a metal strap. Though from what I can see, if the seals are ok, the pipe shouldn't try and come apart, and there shouldn't be any load on the zip tie (or strap).
Also, the engine computer finally noticed and lit up the check engine light. Kinda reassuring that the computer finally noticed, but I've now gotta clear the code. Am trying an overnight diet of no battery as a first step.
So, some notes for the next home educated mechanic enthusiast vandal that has a similar problem:
the dash should not hiss, your turbo could be leaking. (Hosting an iguana is less likely)if you can pull the vertical tube up and down with one hand, new seals might be an idea (I got mine for $30)If you're road tripping with
@Philia_Bear , take zip ties.
Thanks again all, this is the most fun I've had since road tripping with a pregnant wife and toddler in the Rockies.