I'm getting ready to work on my water pump but don't have a device to hold the lower foot on the bench while working on the water pump. Do you guys have any ideas, jigs, or tips for me? I have a bench vise but don't think the would work.
I usually use my large bench vise and clamp the skeg between two small pieces of 2x4's. Since there is no real pressure exerted or hammering going on with the water pump, this technique has never failed me. However, if you were pulling the driveshaft, or doing something else major, I would find another way.
There are a lot of things you can use if you remove the prop first. Black and Decker Workmate that I own anyway. The LU fits between the jaws. I've also used 4 cement blocks (2 on each side).
benefit of the B&D workbench is you don't damage the unit. For long units, grip just under the water pump assembly -- good working height. For short shafts, clamp under the anti-vent plate. For gear work (clam shell type) turn the l.u. upside down and clamp with the anti vent plate resting upside down on the top of the bench. Nice feature is that you can clamp items that aren't flat and square.
Buy one and clamp a chair in it for refinishing; let your wife see it. You get the idea. You also need a new socket set to make house repairs. Now is the time.
BTW, that use of a barstool has me baffled. Unless it's the one next to the workbench for contemplation, sipping cold drinks, reading repair manuals.
the stool is padded and has a tall backrest that curves around, sit the lower on it leaned against the back rest, cradled it nicely at about the right level so I can work standing up
