has anyone heard of spraying silicone on the hoses and boots to make rubber last longer, also brings back the new look to the rubber. truth or myth?

 

As far as I know, silicone will only make rubber parts look good, not last longer. People used to use stuff like brake fluid on tires years ago, before Armorall, etc. The problem is that residual silicone can create all kinds of problems for paint shops if you ever have any body work done (I'm not sure if it damages cured paint). Also, plain silicone contains no UV inhibitors like commercial rubber clean/shine products. I'd stick with the dedicated products from Armorall, Meguairs, etc.