Stanley: I still have not finished installing my new Beta 38 since the yard was unable to lift it into the boat before we returned home for the holidays. However upon my return I have a couple of issues I will need to address prior to starting the engine. 1. I have decided that for the time being I will not be installing the hot water tank and therefor need to know if I can simply put hose clamps on the hot water hose that came from the factory and connects the the hot water outlet with the hot water return or should the hose be removed and plugs of some type installed? 2. The high rise exhaust pipe off the engine is 2" diam however my muffler and the rest of the exhaust hose including the outlet at the transom is 1-7/8". Should this all be changed to 2" or can I somehow adapt the 2" hose to the 1'-7/8" fitting on the muffler. I have been told that perhaps someone manufactures a muffler that has a 2" and a 1-7/8" fittings allowing for this type of transition? 3. FYI on engines like mine where the access for changing the impeller on the water pump has been moved from the front to the side of the engine there is not enough space to install all three speedseal thumb screws since the thumb screws have enlarged heads therefor I had not choice but to use one of the original bolts - not a big deal just information that others might like to know. I look forward to your response as I plan to be back in Florida the 1st week of January and would like to get the boat back in the water ASAP. Richard Walls - World Spectator