is there some secret to refill the coolant system? i know i drained more out than went back in.

 

my thought would be to run the truck to operating temp as it warms up the coolant level should drop when the thermostat opens allowing the coolant to circulate through the engine. NOTE leave rad cap off when doing this so you can refill as the level drops.

 

yes, just start the truck and keep the plastic tank at the full level, when the engine reaches operating temp and the thermostat opens it will take the water in and cool everything back dow n you will have to do this several times. then after it will not take anymore coolant replace cap and drive it. then check again. make sure heater is on.