I am replacing the head gaskets on my 97 4.6l. I have read in various places that one step is to remove the coolant plugs from the block. I know where they are at (well the left one, removed starter and didn't see the right). My question is do I need to do this step for head gasket work?

I have tried with a 3/8" breaker and an 8mm hex socket to remove the right side one but it wont budge. I can see red locktite on the threads. Im worried if I keep going with it Ill strip the hex out.

I have all the cooling components off so far except the water pump and thermostat so Im hoping what I have done already would put the coolant level in the block at point where it would not effect anything.

Thanks

(FYI I'm replacing the head gaskets cause my truck was idling rough when first started, coolant was being forced out of the reservoir from excessive pressure, and the coolant reservoir smelled strongly of exhaust. Has 230,000 miles and I don't know if the gaskets were ever changed.)


Update-

So I tried a couple of methods to remove the plug, using a breaker bar and a hammer, freezing, and using an impact driver. The hex plug didn't even budge. So now Im wondering if siphoning as much as possible from where the lower radiator hose is attached to the block will be sufficient or if I should just remove the freeze plug above the drain plug.

Also could someone explain or even better post a pic of where the drain plug on the passenger side is? Removed the starter and there is no plug below the last freeze plug like on the drivers side.

 

I don't see any reason to remove the block plugs. If you have pulled the lower rad hose off the rad the coolant level would be below the heads and intake.