[Killer Bee]

the 'flapper' hose symptom you mention is not always consistent which can make it difficult to diagnose..

also not always easy to see even while looking through a hydraulic hose, may need some fluid force to make it show its butt..

as already recommended, just replace them anyways if old and suspect, cheap insurance from a brake failure..

as for the calipers, they absolutely have to move freely on the brackets as they are friction release..

if you still have the old ones, fit one in for comparison and you might find your culprit there..

that's a good start, keep us posted and good luck!