Crossing the hoses does sound like a good idea. The main problem is the access. You basically would have to cut out the splash well to gain access to the hoses where they connect underneath the deck. Both of mine were leaking and that is why I waited until the transom was replaced to address that. The access was not there to even replace the hoses normally.
You will love trim tabs on that hull. They make it ride like a bigger hull. Well worth the expense!
I know this is an old post, but I thought I would post this for people considering repowering. I have a 1985 222 CCP and just re-powered with a Yamaha 200 4 stroke (from the old Johnson 235). The weight of the new motor was about 90 pounds more than the old Johnson (from what I recall when checking specs). We just took it out this weekend and we definitely had a problem with water coming in the scuppers. With a couple of heavier guys near the back...when standing on one side, we were taking on water. if the weight was properly distributed, we didn't have a problem. The front definitely sits up higher as a result of the additional weight. We are having the batteries moved from the transom to underneath the center console to help move that 100 pounds (or so) forward. We are also plugging the transom live well to avoid all of that water weighing down the back end. Probably will plug the scuppers when in use as well because we still had some clearance and we really didn't have much of a risk of water coming over the transom. However, I am concerned about getting swamped if we have to come off of the gas suddenly (I feel this is a real concern). I worry about someone driving my boat for me and doing this. The weight problem may be helped by the two things I mentioned above...but am concerned until I try it out. I wish I had enclosed the transom and bought the right length motor shaft instead of buying the 25" shaft and sticking with the original transom configuration. Only option now (with this expensive motor on the back) if what I'm trying doesn't work, is to enclose the transom and buy a bracket. Love the new motor and hope that my plan will work... will see.