[GirlsRideToo]

Sorry guys, probably a really blonde question. Planning to drain and replace antifreeze and install new thermostat. I understand the procedure. What I don't understand is the part about draining out the old coolant at the water pump. If I place a container under the drain, on the ground, how is the coolant going to get past/through the plastic engine guard? Do I need to remove the guard? The manual does not say to do this so I'm confused.

 

[SamUK]

Maybe you could use the hose to aim the coolant into a drain bucket if you remove it from the opposite end? Or as you say, it may be easier to remove the engine/skid plate.