Running newer motor with water hose connected

[silveradols41]

Is it better to run your engine with the water hose connected to the water intakes at the foot of the motor or just screwed into the hole at the upper back of the motor, just below the cowling?

[boats.net]

Best to run with flusher on lower unit to make sure water pump doesn't run dry.

[silveradols41]

Best to run with flusher on lower unit to make sure water pump doesn't run dry.

probably best to run it both ways to flush out the thermostat too. If the hose is screwed into the hole, you're only supposed to run the hose at 1/2 pressure.