Reverse Isolation of a Maniac

[Redeye]

This is a question I've had for quite awhile and it came up in a session the other night. I'm at a table and out of position against a maniac. He's on my left or one seat over to my left. This maniac will auto 3-bet my raise a large percentage of the time and will play just as recklessly post-flop. In these situations, where I count on him 3-betting my raise a large percentage of the time (40%+), I find myself raising a lot lighter and much more suspect hands in early and midposition.

An example, I pick up A7o UTG+1, I have a tighter player to my left and the maniac is in the CO. I find myself raising this because I can count on a three-bet by the maniac to get me HU. Is this a terrible play?

If people would try this type of "reverse isolation" play, what is the lightest you'll raise in EP, or MP with the maniac either directly after you or one seat over. If there is a player in between you and the maniac, how does he factor in to what you raise? How do the players after the maniac factor in. Even loose player will fold a lot of stuff to a 3-bet. Lets also assume people aren't yet adjusting to the maniacs 3-bets and aren't cold-calling with random stuff.

I've been pushing things like A5s, ~55, K8s, Q9s, in EP when I know the maniac will 3-bet my raises and am wondering if others do the same.

I'd like to here others thoughts. Thanks