Problems with leaking hoses on McLeod TO bearing

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I hope someone can help out a very frustrated '65 Mustang owner who is also making his first post to this forum.

I installed a McLeod hydraulic throwout bearing today on a T5z. There is a pressure hose running to the TO bearing, and a longer hose running between the short hose and the master cylinder. I am getting leaks at all three connections: TO bearing to short hose, short hose to long hose, and long hose to master cylinder. I have tightened all connections but still they leak. Is there a secret to stopping leaks at these connections?

Part two: I am running a RAM diaphragm clutch. Could it be that the diaphragm springs are too strong, requiring me to exert more pressure on the system than it is designed for? The pedal is very hard, requiring about the same effort as the Z-bar I was formerly running.

As a "throw parts at it" solution I am thinking of a Centerforce clutch, because these have lighter springs on the pressure plates. What is a good Centerforce for street use?

Thanks in advance for any replies.