I'll keep the basket strainer (as well as the external strainer, which is an integral part of the thru hull in any event). I only thought to get rid of the basket because, as I said, I've caught a single blade of eel grass there, once, in 10 years. I was hoping to eliminate several elbows which is what will be required now that I'm adding a transmission cooler in the line, but done well it should be safe enough.

Thanks for the suggestions, very much appreciated as always.

Max