On the stainless problem I discovered a little trick that will make installing your fittings easy. I use a hose clamp and screw it down pretty tight. I then use the clamp as my guide to cut with a cutoff wheel which leaves a clean cut. When I remove the clamp the hose retains the clamped size which allows it to slip into the fitting very easily. Tighten the fitting down and your done. Works fine!!!