2000 225 Promax first start up...

Hey all,

Just finally picked up my 1996 procraft 200 sp with the 2000 mercury 225 promax on it. I want to run her on the hose later on today just to knock the cob webs out of her because the previous owner hasn't run the engine in about 2 years. (He did drain all the gas out of it before he stored it) Anyways, I was looking for a set of "ear muffs" that go on the nose cone and incorporate the low water pick ups, but had heard of some guys taking the external braided stainless hose off the lower unit, and hooking the hose up directly to there. It seems the connections are just 5/8" compression fittings?? SHould be able to make something work from parts at the local hardware store? Is this a reccomended method of running this engine? I realize "muffs" aren't near as good as a tank, but all I am after is firing up the engine briefly and making sure everything seems kosher. Also when I get it fired up, I should be getting water from the pee hole on the back of the lower cowling correct? Thanks for any help

-Randy