Rihno Ramps are under $20 at PetBoys...just a thought!
--
Current owner of a '04 V70 2.5T. Previous owner of a '94 850 Turbo Wagon

If you don't drain it about two cups will come out when you
unbolt the hose. I've done two and did not drain anything --
just topped off after replacing.

Be careful putting the torx bolts back in. It is easy to drop
them down into the engine bay where they are difficult to retrieve.

I've done this procedure a few times and I personally prefer to drain the coolant as it makes much less mess and you can re-use it after installing the new thermostat. Here's how I do it:

1) Find or buy a suitable drain pan, 6qt capacity or larger.
2) Use a deep 13mm socket to loosen drain plug under radiator on driver's side. There is an access hole.
3) As anti-freeze starts to dribble down, go the reservoir and unscrew cap. The anti-freeze should start coming down pretty good now.
4) Watch the anti-freeze level and wait for about 15-20 seconds after it goes below the level of the reservoir bottom to ensure that it is below the thermostat.
5) Put the reservoir cap back on as it will slow or even stop the flow of anti-freeze from the drain plug. Tighten drain plug.
6) You will need a T-40 torx bit to remove the thermostat housing. The one in the back is more difficult to access. I use a T-40 bit that goes into a 1/4" socket and then I convert is to 3/8" with extension to get enough clearance. The front should be no problem.
7) The rest is easy. Just wiggle the housing off and replace the thermostat. Tighten bits and use a funnel to put drained anti-freeze back into your system.

-Jeong
'96 855T

I wouldnt drain it, granted you will loose some replacing the the part

cap off, good to go

Naw, you don't need to drain it down although you'll get a gush of antifreeze when you remove the upper hose so have something to catch it. Remember that antifreeze is very toxic to any pets ( yours or a neighbors) that may come along and dogs and cats are attracted to it's sweet taste and they die soon afterwards. You will also need a fairly large torx bit to remove the two thermostat housing bolts and the back one is easy to mess up so go easy on it. Good luck!

bl