Tracy,
That does seem like a compelling reason to leave the water pump in the stock location.  Seems sorta strange to think that having a non operating water pump is preferable.  However, I too would rather have water in the block for boiling/cooling than no water at all.  It's so humbling to think that I have thought through failure modes only to find out that I didn't think of everything.  At least the guys here strive to share and educate.

BTW Perry, congratulations on your flight testing.  It was great to meet you at Tracy's.

Thanks,
Ken Powell