What is the best way to get the hose with wire reinforced 1.25 dia onto the transom pickup? I can only push it about on about an 1.5. Any tips here?

I just did mine last week. I sprayed that silicone spray on the fitting and in the hose and just kept pushing and turning until it went on. It's a pain in the ass but was easier once I used the silicone spray.

Armor All also works well and it doesn't attack the rubber.