Running engine without the sterndrive in

[95yj]

Merc 5.7L with Alpha Gen II drive and closed cooling system. Does anyone know of any reason you couldn't run the engine with the sterndrive off? This is assuming you supply running water to the raw water.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Running engine without the sterndrive in

I know it works on an Alpha 1.....Don't see why it wouldn't work on gen 2.....
But, let someone with a gen 2 give the answer......JK

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Running engine without the sterndrive in

I always run a motor before I install the drive. Installing it just makes more work if it has to come back out for some reason.

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: Running engine without the sterndrive in

I attach the hose connection in a way that it leaks somewhat, so I don't try to send full municipal water pressure into the engine.

 

[paulie0735]

Re: Running engine without the sterndrive in

I attach the hose connection in a way that it leaks somewhat, so I don't try to send full municipal water pressure into the engine.

Depending on the type of raw water pump you have. I just drop the water pickup hose into a bucket of water and just keep the bucket full with the garden hose.

There is no problem running the engine with the drive out apart from the obvious things like pulling the drive shaft out, routing the exhaust so it doesn't fill the boat with carbon monoxide and KILL you, connecting the water pickup and ensuring the engine is properly supported at the rear.