Complete (novice, newbie, idiot) winterization

In answer to your .4), I know with the direct drives, a lot of guys say to skip taking out the transmission cooler plug, and just undo the hoses at either end. I guess it's too hard (and not worth it) to get this plug out without damaging the tranny cooler.

I believe the steps Quinner mentions above make it unnecessarily anyway. As his method would have antifreeze running through there anyway.

The manifold drain bolts are big, 1 1/4" IIRC. Block has 2 plugs, probably a hex on the starboard side you mentioned unless you have a shower, the knock sensor will be in the port side drain, you will need to remove the electrical connection, squeeze it and it comes right off, then remove the knock sensor - when you re-install sensor do not use Teflon and torque as specified or just snug it up tight-medium pressure. You will also find a brass drain plug in the front lower red cast hose. Other items to consider - do you have a shower or heater.
Do some more reading as this should all be outlined on previous threads including all the additional items not noted like draining the FCC & Gateway box pitot connections, lubing rudder via Zerk fitting, fogging cylinders, treating gas, etc. etc.

remember, water is heavier than air, so look at your trans cooler and decide if it needs to be drained, if it is vertical you dont need to drain it

I'm pretty sure nobody is going to take the time to give me all the info I need.

If someone would be kind enough to give me a tool list I would appreciate it. I have no idea if the drain plugs require a standard wrench or a hex wrench.

From what I've been able to see on my engine...there are two very large brass bolts on the back of the manifolds that will need to come out. And on the starboard side of the engine block it appears to be a hex wrench style bolt/plug. Does this sound correct? Is the one on the port side in the same location? Same size?

For you pro's out there, forgive me...I am not a gear head and do not "know my way around an engine". I am however someone that is wanting to learn the basics and am going to start this year.

**I have owned boats for quite a while, but this is my first true inboard**

I recently purchased a 2006 SV211 w/ a PCM Excalibur 330 engine (GM). I need to winterize asap and I am determined to do so myself. I have scoured the internet and have found many threads and instructions on what to do...but unfortunately there are not pictures to accompany most threads. This forum seemed to be quite helpful with people so I figured I would give this one a shot. PLEASE HELP WITH THE FOLLOWING!!!

1. What tools will I need to drain the manifolds, block, transmission cooler, and appropriate hoses.

2. Are the exhaust manifold drains on this engine the VERY large brass screw in bolts? They are BIG.

3. Is the "knock sensor" attached to the bolt on one side of the engine or is that something I will have to remove seperately?

4. Where in the world is the "transmission and engine cooler plug"

5. What is the V-Drive plug and where will do I find it?

As you can see, I am a complete novice...but I want to learn and I want to do it right. Any help, suggestions, pictures etc.. would be greatly appreciated. Please don't beat up on me too much...I understand the risks, I have spent many hours reading forums etc...so it is not as if I just turned the computer on and didn't try and figure this out before I posted on here.

Thanks in advance for ANY and ALL help.

tlembke