My truck (2011 5.3L V-8) has passed 100K miles. The owners manual states that it's time to flush the coolant. I've read the Haynes manual but have some questions:
1. There are supposed to be 2 drain plugs on the block (one on either side), but I only found one on one side. Is there only one?
2. The one I found has some parts below it that will get wet if I open the plug. Is this a problem?
3. Is it a good idea to remove the splash guards (the metal and plastic pcs under the radiator)? It appears the coolant will get all over these, even being careful.
4. Where can I dispose of old coolant?
5. I'll wear gloves, but how toxic is this stuff? I'm assuming it will stain clothes, but what will it do to bare skin? What will it do to any engine parts it gets on? Of course I'll wipe it off, but I may not get all of it.
Thanks for any advice/input.
-Jeff
-----------
1. There are supposed to be 2 drain plugs on the block (one on either side), but I only found one on one side. Is there only one?
2. The one I found has some parts below it that will get wet if I open the plug. Is this a problem?
3. Is it a good idea to remove the splash guards (the metal and plastic pcs under the radiator)? It appears the coolant will get all over these, even being careful.
4. Where can I dispose of old coolant?
5. I'll wear gloves, but how toxic is this stuff? I'm assuming it will stain clothes, but what will it do to bare skin? What will it do to any engine parts it gets on? Of course I'll wipe it off, but I may not get all of it.
Thanks for any advice/input.
-Jeff
-----------