Gwozhog,
Looking at seat picture assume that you're driving port, right ? if so, 2 issues : As prop turns right or clockwise will inbalance boat to port, the inbalance will be worst if you tiller drive sitting to port side, that will happen when you're alone. At that port driving position won't see OB's peeing port as port should be located at right from engine when seen from back engine. If lower leg water intakes achieves some form of obstruction, plastic bags, debris, banana peels ,etc won't see peeing indicator port and could have a serious OB overheat.
Under the cowl, Tohatsu 18 HP.
Happy Boating