Is it safe to replace the engine circulator pump in the water?

[JohnEG]

Hi, I need to replace the engine's circulator pump (Not my raw water pump) on my Mercruiser 1998 5.7 engine. is it safe? I away check before working below the water line. Thanks

 

[Chris1956]

The circulator pump should be above the waterline on most installations. Pull off the raw water hose and see if it leaks into the boat. If not, you are fine. If she leaks, plug it an then you should be fine.

 

[Scott06]

You may have to clamp off or plug the raw water intake line otherwise should be ok.

 

[Scott Danforth]

if its an alpha drive, then the water line from the transom shield goes up and over the SWL prior to entering the thermostat housing and ultimately the block.

if its a bravo drive, the raw water line may be at the SWL or below and would need to be blocked off.

 

[Scott06]

something like this may come in handy

https://www.harborfreight.com/radiator-hose-pinch-off-pliers-99704.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12169518939&campaignid=12169518939&utm_content=114845794697&adsetid=114845794697&product=99704&store=176&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkaHcs6DMhwMVskL_AR1NVw4OEAQYBiABEgJ1vPD_BwE

 

[Scott Danforth]

except those pliers do not work on the hard hose before a pump.

However the cap from a WD40 spray can will usually fit within the end of the hose and stop the water from coming in.