Advice for coolant flush 2008 Ford Duratec 2.3?

[LoneRanger]

So at 70K miles I want to perform a coolant flush on the Escape. I've learned (here) that Motorcraft Premium Gold coolant = Zerex G-05, available at NAPA parts stores. But here's the deal: I want to do a complete drain, not just the radiator. Is there also a coolant drain plug on the bottom of the Duratec block that can be pulled to drain coolant sitting in the engine? And do you really need to put in any anti-leak pellets after a thorough drain and fill?

 

[HTSS_TR]

Yes, Motorcraft Premium Gold coolant = Zerex G-05 and available at NAPA for $16.xx a gallon concentrate. No, Don't Use Anti-Leak any kind if you don't have any leak in your coolant system. I don't know where is the coolant drain plug on the bottom of the Duratec engine. Someone may chime in.

 

[vssjim]

I've never seen a drain on these cars so draining everything is impossible. unless you flush it with water untill clean and then hope to drain enough to get back to 50/50 there is drain and refill only.

 

[LoneRanger]

Originally Posted By: vssjim

I've never seen a drain on these cars so draining everything is impossible. unless you flush it with water untill clean and then hope to drain enough to get back to 50/50 there is drain and refill only.

Well, shoot. Wasn't wanting to do the garden hose flush. Might see what the local Ford dealership charges for the job.

 

[JOD]

I'm all for maintenance overkill, but you only have 70K/3 years on it. I'd just do a drain/fill, then go to every 2 years afterward (which is the recommendation in the manual, IIRC). Even if you're leaving some behind, it's not a big deal--the stuff in there still has some life left. I'd still prefer this over the unknown of having the dealer do it. They may do it correctly, but you never know... The Duratec 3.0 has no block drains I can find--not sure about the 2.3L.