I'm replacing the gasket on my intake manifold and need to ensure all the coolant is out before I lift it off. What is the best way to get the coolant out so it doesn't drain into my engine?? I would prefer not to jack up the rear if possible.

 

Just drain the coolant from the rad.

 

LMAO,... sorry that was funny.

 

You will still get a tiny bit come out no matter what,once you got the rad flushed,start unbolting everything that is related to the intake,then undo the intake,lift up slowly,and what ever might drip out,wipe it right away.That is all you can do.Then run the engine for a few minutes,then drain the oil out to get what ever oil,or dirt that might have gotten in.That is all you can really do.

EDIT!!!
My word,just realized how old this thread is!!D'oh!!

 

if your real you can blow through a coolant tube with compressed air.

 

Drain the rad some, pop the intake, scrap the old gaskets off, put the new gaskets on, place the intake on.

A good trick to use when putting on an intake it take 2 bolts and cut the heads off. Thread them in opposite sides and lower the intake through these bolts. Your intake is guaranteed to drop properly in place. Make sure you either use gasket rtv or glue the cork gaskets in place. If you don't fate will have them popping out on you.

You should change your oil afterward. All those little gaskets bit and anti-freeze are going to get into it.