One turn of masking tape around the braided line in the cut area helps to keep the braid from fraying....the thin tape can be inserted into the nut portion of the fitting also. If you use duct tape, it is too thick and will not allow you to push the nut part on the hose.

Insert the barb into the hose until the end of the hose if fully seated. Then tighten the nut completely to capture the hose....you should tighten it snug but dont throw all your weight into it....I would estimate 25 ft lbs is good.

Cutting hose can be done with a sheet metal shear, a thin cutoff wheel, even a thin cutoff in a dremel tool. A hacksaw makes for a ragged cut in my opinion. I have also used a large pair of handheld shears but they have to be tight....otherwise you will have several strands of uncut braid. A good shear is the easiest and fastest. Blow the hose out after you assemble it!!!

Get a box of band aids. As a rule of thumb, the larger the size, the easier it is to assemble.

mike in tucson