It may work, I have had some folks have success with 1.5HP vac. You are going to have to make sure it is perfectly sealed up. Using only one hive body and no cut-out shim will improve your chances. As G3 says, duct tape works great, in fact, maybe "seal up a bee vac" will make the next "1000 uses for duct tape" book. It will limit the length of hose you will be able to use. I usually suggest using the biggest vac you can so your options lose options are not restricted. With the bypass, you can precisely adjust the suction at the end when you have your hose configured. There is nothing worse than needing one more section of hose and not having enough suction.
good luck,
rob....