Yes I have read every thread here.
I am installing a Laytham Marine strainer, but after reading a thread this morning about Low Water pick up Bravos I thought I really have two options, go transom pick up only or plumb a transom pick up into the strainer with the OD pick up, 2 inputs to the strainer? BUT then how could I flush with ears? Wouldn't the transom pick up draw air while flushing???
Thoughts?

Or transom pick up only... what do I use to block of the OD water and where do you buy it???

Those are my questions.
Bryan

Here is a link on BAM that has the water housing cover I think you need.

I have heard of people taking the cover off the strainer and just set the water hose in it. I have a valve on the thru hull fitting and a TEE and valve on the input side on the strainer for flushing, winterizing and dry dock running.


http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show_...+HOUSING+COVER

Before you go making radical changes to your boat I would call the dealer or factory and find out why they are not using the transom mount pickups. Like some one else said in this thread some hulls have way too much air back there for efficient cooling.I would also think that the transom mount pick ups mounted in the wrong spot could screw up the water to your prop and also cost you a good mile or two on your top speed
I thought the low water pickups were to help us get water to the motor. Add a strainer problem solved


Thats what I had to say on the thread in general discussion

Thanks for the data.
I am not scared of the LW pick-up, I only clogged up once in the last 115 hours. I am very careful.
I am installing the strainer for sure.

Just exploring other options.

Great comment on possibly screwing up the water flow to the prop.
Thanks Bryan

I put the hose connection directly on my strainer. It works well this way, If the engine is revved higher it cannot suck the hose flat as it draws air from the drive, when RPM's go down it just goes back to taking the water. Air wont hurt unless you have no water at all.

I leave the shutoff in the on position while running on the hose. You may want to concider this set up too.
Here is a pict: