I think the water heating is very important. Sure made mine run better. I have the heater hose tee'd as the inlet and the return is back to the gooseneck through the spacer you spoke of. From what others here have said a 261 gooseneck already has the extra hole for the fitting if you can find one. 3/8" heater hose on some barb fittings and worm clamps and your in business.
