Thank you for contacting Yamaha Motor Australia with your question.
We can advise that both systems of flushing are recommended in your
owners manual. The TOP flush allows you to clean the internal cooling
passageways of debris and salt residue quietly in built up areas.
While the traditional method of using ear muffs is as effective at doing the
same task but allowing you to run your motor (noisy), which some owners
prefer to do.
We suggest that should you operate in high silted areas or an accidental
grounding on a sand bar occurs. Then "Top" flush first, the higher pressure
from most taps help to remove any build up, debris etc.
Then follow on with a 5 minute flush with the ear muffs to ensure system is
cleaned and no blockages have been caused.
Just to quickly summarise, both procedures or combination thereof are
recommended when flushing your motor.
It is really a matter of the operators preference and location that determines
which they will use.
Once again, thank you for contacting us, we hope this brief explanation
is of assistance.