I want to change the antifreeze on my 2005 G35X. It's really a simple procedure but for the bottom engine cover plate turns a simple job into a pain in the rear. Working on my driveway, what is the easiest, fastest method of achieving my goal? Can I get to the screw-plug (coolant-drain) on the bottom without removing the bottom cover?
How do you all handle the removal of the bottom cover plate?
CliffordS

 

There's a cutout in the cover where the drain plug is. But it's not that big a deal to jack the car and take the cover off anyway.

 

just a bunch of bolts... and one push clip... remove them all and the pan drops right down... it a good oportunity to wash it down real good (I always do anyway)

 

If I purchase ramps will I be able to remove the bottom pan? What procedure do you use?
CliffordS

 

you are referring to the plastic belly panel right?... if so, its just a bunch of bolts along the front, a few in the rear and side and a push clip in the center... use an impact wrench if you have one, if not just good 'ol 10mm ratchet... its about 15 bolts (iirc) it drops right down when the bolts are removed... keep the push clip in till the end (so the thing doesn’t fall on your face)

btw, you don’t need ramps necessarily, but it would give you more room... just slide under the front of the car if you are OEM height... if lowered, jack it up and use stands (or blocks under the tires).

Or are you asking about procedure to drain coolant?

 

[QUOTE=OCG35;....Or are you asking about procedure to drain coolant?[/QUOTE]

I am OK with the process of draining and refilling the antifreeze.
My only question is about radiator caps; Why the large difference in price? I understand about the different pressures (OEM 1.1kg, some replacements 1.3 kg) Is an expensive radiator cap worth two or three times the ones I see in my local auto parts store?
CliffordS

 

300ZX TT cap are high pressure and cost only $15 from Nissan dealer (DaveO from Nissan Sport/SportZ researched/tested several and endorses this one). I don’t know what a caps at auto part stores costs but for $15 for a tested cap I think it’s worth it

 

Thank you for the information. I ordered the 300zx tt radiator cap.
People, like yourself, who share useful information are the bright spot of internet forums.
Thanks again,
Cliff