I notice there are two holes on the front of the lower skeg (forward facing) . Do you need to cover these holes when running on the hose?

Thx

I never covered the front holes and never had a issue running it in the hose.

Changing the oil after it just ran is better imo. It is thinner but also all the contaminates are not sitting on the bottom of the oil pan. They will be suspended in the oil.

What oil to use will be an opinion. Mine is run mobile 1 15-50. I also changed it every 25 hrs. Over kill but the engine is very expensive to repair/replace.

I run these on my twin 350s. Been good for years now. I put quick connects on the hose end. Flush after every use.

https://www.perko.com/catalog/underw..._pro%E2%84%A2/

Let's me run the engine on trailer, on the lift, even with the drive off if your so inclined.

Mobilb Delvac 1300 is an excellent oil and usually around $12-$13 a gallon at Walmart. If it'll hold up to over the road turbo diesels it'll hold up in a boat. Been using it for years and it comes out dark but clean.

Standard Merc DWP's have 4 holes like this as far as I know https://www.valleymotorsports.net/in...5121-10912425i
If yours is a DWP, I'd just put a piece duct tape over the holes. If its a single hole above the bullet, that is a pickup for a water speedo.