I’ve done it on an MD2020 engine which is not the same as your engine, but on mine the elbows at each end were made from rubber, and the tube nest extended out into those rubber elbows where the elbows were connected with a jubilee clip both to the end of the outer part of the heat exchanger, but also had another jubilee clip fitted around the mid length of the elbow. It was that second jubilee clip that created the seal. with that second jubilee tightened in place, sea water could only go through the tubes, while on the other side of that second clip was now an area where the separate engine cooling fresh water mixed with antifreeze could now circulate, but only around the outside of the tubes. You might have a similar setup so it is important if you do, to ensure that your second jubilee clip fits over the landing area near to the ends of the tube nest.
Hopefully it will all make sense when you pull it apart.