Running Engine without water

[getunder]

While working on my cooling system pipes I need to take the van off the ramps under the rear wheels and to put the front of the van on the ramps. As the coolant is drained is it ok to run the engine without water while I manoevure in the drive and rev it up to get off and on the ramps. the question is for how long can I run it. would it harm the water pump ? Being retired I can let it get stone cold between operations

[Nicola&Tony]

I'm guessing that you're wanting to do this to bleed it? Some people argue that there's no need to raise the front end to do the bleeding. I've only ever raised the front end slighlty by going up onto those yellow camping wedges, which requires a lot less effort from the engine than going up onto car ramps does. My suggestion would be to lower the back end and then put as much water and anti-freeze back in the system before attempting to raise the front end.

But wait a bit longer and see what others on here suggest first.

Tony

E D I T: just been looking at your post again, maybe you're working on the long back - front pipes? So my suggestion would be useless! Raising the front with a jack and axle stands would be a better option imho.

[HarryMann]

Needs must... the oil will cool it for a minute or so. You could risk the water pump or remove the belt, if its just drained and not bone dry should be OK. Just get it up there quickly and efficiently! Been done a thousand times in garages...

[Nicola&Tony]

While working on my cooling system pipes . . .

Ah, just noticed that you have another thread about the back - front pipes:
https://club8090.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=47337" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Tony