I don't think you can just use hose. Oem is a very hard plastic type material. That line is what lubricates the top of the engine and plain hose would collapse under lack of pressure leaving your top end high and dry. I think there under 20 bucks right here. I just bought 2.
Where in Jersey are you? I have 10 of these 18's maybe I can be of some help. When you cleaned the carb, was it totally taken apart?
Is there any oil sealing out of either the top or bottom crank seals?
