Power Steering pump hose

I recall people have tried heater hose, to ill effect. It softens w/ hot oil. I think the return hose size depends on the p.s. pump (at least in my SB). Early TRW pumps used the largest hose (~1/2"D). The similar-looking Federal pump had a smaller hose (7/16"D?). The fittings on the p.s. gear matched.