[Dekeman]

Changing plug wires is tricky in the back of the engine compartment. I tried to get back there and ended up taking it to the dealer because I couldn't get to it. $295 later (!), I figured I wussed out too easily and found this wonderful forum. Many posts here (use the search function) refer to putting the van on ramps and getting underneath to reach the plugs and wires. You could also take out the cowling under the windshield and reach over the engine if going under there isn't to your liking.

The coolant flush is a mystery to me still, even after reading umpteen posts on coolant. The '03 has a closed system (no rad cap, just an overflow tank), so the traditional Prestone 'T'-fitting flush and fill kit may not work since you have to fill at the cap to flush. The owner's manual specifies Specialty Gold or regular green coolant, and says to put in what was in it at the factory. Not being a mind reader, I called the local dealership to see what was with this. They gave me two different answers after transferring me all over the place (they never have been very bright at this place), and settled on Gold coolant. Problem is, the overflow tank has a graphic of a tilted-over bottle with gold liquid in it with a big slash through it. I figured I'd follow wiswind's advice and go with a Xerex G-05 coolant, but now I have no idea at all what to put in. If it's green, I should have changed it at 60K, but if it's Gold, I can wait until 100K. I just topped off with 50/50 green; hope that was right!

Hopefully some knowledgable soul will read this and take pity on us newbies!