Is the fitting tapered where the hose connects?(many can use either a 1 1/4" or 1 1/2" hose, and have a tapered fitting). If so, what often happens is the hose is not flexible enough to go far enough up the fitting for the clamp to get a good grip an...
Prob the easiest least expensive way would be with a garden hose. Most people have one if they have a pool. It is not the fastest but by the time you factor in hunting down a pump and buying it and picking it up and bringing it back home and hooking ...
No the auto cleaners won't reach that "ledge" but it shouldn't be much of a problem to "sweep" since it is so handily located around the outside.