I changed my fuel hoses last fall and found that from the bottom was the only way. Unbolted the master cylinder and pulled over to the side with baling twine (only really necessary if you have a vacuum booster). Took the starter off (to replace contacts in the mean time). Then worked on the fuel lines.
The general suggestion is to use the marine diesel hose available at boat shops. Not expensive and it's fire resistant and will last much longer. Get bigger clamps.
I had the little leak down the side of the engine and this stopped it.
Good luck,
Blake