Anybody ever backflush their engine?

[OcoeeSki]

I'm new to nautiques, just bought a 2003 196 this fall and the previous owner had removed the strainer. It did'nt run when I got it but a new hp fuel pump solved that and I had it in the water for about an hour with no problems but the lake was low already and I was worried about blockage/debris in the engine. I have taken the themostat out and nothing, and the impeller looks fine, thought I might try to flush the engine out somehow while I have it apart. Has anybody done this or should I not worry about it? And a second question, how difficult is replacing the impeller? I have a new one already but noticed a removal tool on nautiqueparts I think, is it necessary or can I use a big hammer like I do on most of my projects?

[Chexi]

Personally, I think removing the impeller is pretty easy without the tool. On a v-drive, the tool might make the job go a little quicker, but I don't use one on my v-drive. If you had a v-drive with hard ballast tanks, then it might be worth it.