changing impeller..like normal...4th time doing so, only this time for whatever reason the inlet hose (bottom) is coming up about 1/4" short where it will not slide onto the pump enough to get a good seal with the clamp.

I have tugged on the hose as best I can (it is a bugger to get any real good grip) and there is no play whatsoever.

any suggestions? It is almost impossible to get the further back clamp loose to remove that section of hose to go and have a new hose cut slightly longer

Did you by chance slide it on too far at the other end? Is the pump body flush against it's mount stops, or is something wedging itself in the way you're not seeing?