Henrik

iTrader: (5)

So I thought I'd change the rear diff oil today, but the rear plugs seem to be welded on or something...

Did a search and the results seem to imply using a 1/2" breaker bar without a socket on, but that just started deforming my plug (Halfords largest breaker bar), so gave that a miss. Also tried one of the halfords "drain plug removal tools" (the one that has a number of square shaped "pyramid with top chopped off" bits), but that couldnt shift it either.

Does anyone know the actual size of the hole, and is there a socket type tool that will fit snuggly in there? I want something with a 1/2" drive so that I can get some proper leverage on the plugs, as they're *really* stuck in there.


On the plus side, at least I managed to change downpipe, engine oil, gearbox oil and brake fluid just before it got dark

rossdj1983

iTrader: (5)

let it soak in wd over night, you can get proper 1/2" bits for the job to, try it they do fit snugger

Henrik

iTrader: (5)

ah, had a look in the shops for the bits but couldn't find them anywhere, but now I see there's some on ebay! Ordered a 13mm key now, hopefully it fits

360ste

iTrader: (1)

I take it you mean the drain plug rather than the filling plug. If so let the weather improve then go for a good drive to get the diff warmed up should warm the casing causing it to expand slightly then try undoing the fill before the drain. I say that because if you get the drain plug out and not the fill you will stuff the rear diff if you need to take it somewhere.

Henrik

iTrader: (5)

Yes, it's the filling plug I meant - I was scared to tackle the drain plug for exactly the reason you mention

milliemoo

i had this problem too but warming it with a drive (and as a last resort a heat gun)combined with a top brand quality tool did the trick!

Ayde

iTrader: (6)

As above, just apply a little heat to the plug with a blow torch and use 13mm plug socket - you can get these from motor factors or screw fix do a set.

C17RPA

just use the socket ratchet wrench without a socket on thats what i did and it worked

rossdj1983

iTrader: (5)

nope, you need to heat the area (casing) around the bolt/plug, not directly on it

Henrik

iTrader: (5)

Tool ordered, will give it a blast with a torch first as well just to make sure...

Is there usually some loctite type stuff on the threads as well? Last diff oil change was done by a main dealer three years back.