what type of seating do you have? My '97 245 has the u-wrap seating, the middle "engine box" of the rear seat unscrews to allow more engine access, although it still isn't great. On my boat there is a vertical bulkhead just in front of the engine and rearward of the fuel tank that I would think is not removeable.
I can see where it is difficult to get under the engine to the pump, but for that kind of bill I would try a headstand with my face down in the bilge to do it myself.
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Terry
Current: 07 Crownline 255 CCR cuddy - 350 Mag MPI/B3 "Casi Cielo"
Previous:97 245 Sundowner 5.7GI/SX
Tow vehicle: 1986 GMC 2500 Camper Special 454/TH400