Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

[Huntoon]

First time for me winterizing 2001 Alpha 3.0, and I have a couple questions.<br />Cooling System Capacity: I used the Quick Drain lines to drain the water and then removed thermostat to pour antifreeze into block and also poured into manifold hose. But it only took 8 quarts while the book says capacity is 9 quarts. Is this a concern? <br />Oil drain plug: I can't seem to locate the oil drain plug. Is it accessible or do I need to get a pump for going through the dipstick assembly?<br />Much obliged for help on these!

 

[cw_racefan]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

As I remember with my old 3.0 Alpha, all I could get in was about 2 gallons. I wouldn't worry, especially if you drained everything first.<br /><br />As for the oil, if you can get under the engine, you can get the drain plug, though there is no way normally to get anything underneath to catch the oil. Best bet (and most common) is to pump through dipstick tube.

 

[Summett]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

cw_racefan...i have a 3.0 too, and wasn't aware there was a drain plug underneath it!<br /><br />I wonder if you could attach a plug that has a drain hose connected to it? My lawn mower has one because the plugs are in a very difficult position. Hmmm...

 

[cw_racefan]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

Mine was an 1989 and it had one. I ended up doing something similar to what you suggest. I found a kit that replaced the OEM plug in the oil pan with a plug/hose combo. To change the oil, I just ran it to heat it up, pushed the hose out the bildge drain, opened it up and drained into a drain pan. I was very slow, but sure beat the mess/etc of pumping out of the dipstick.

 

[Don S]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

The 2001 model should have a drain hose attached to the bottom of the oil pan. It was designed to fit through the boats drain plug. Or you could use a pump attached to the hose to suck the oil out. Either way, warm the engine oil before trying to change it.<br /><br />As far as the cooling, did you make sure the hose (and power steering cooler if equipped) were full also? They would probably be air locked and not fill up.

 

[Summett]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

cw_racefan...where did you get that kit? I'd be interested in something like that. I have a '97 3.0L.

 

[cw_racefan]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

Overtons I believe, but was quite awhile ago.

 

[Summett]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

Thanks...i just ordered a pump from them this morning! I'll see what they have. Thanks again!

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

I installed a Fram Sure-Drain on the oil pan and drain it out the transom.

 

[Mile-High Mariner]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

The Fram Sure-Drain is available at Auto-Zone, and probably numerous other parts outlets, as well. Secure additional length of the correct ID hose and you'll have enough to make it to the bilge drain.

 

[Huntoon]

Re: Questions on Winterizing Alpha 3.0

Thanks everyone!<br /><br />I used the Quick Drain hoses again -- couldn't find anything else to drain. I poured into the thermostat housing and the hose to the manifold. It only took 8 quarts again (not 9) but I think I've done all I could.<br /><br />On the oil, thanks I found the oil drain hose which pulled right the bilge drain hole. Amazing how easy things are when you know what to look for. It would have nice to get this info from the Merc owners manual!