Changing the diff and transmission oils

[ozone42]

So I bought the oils I want, got some ramps, already had a jack and some jackstands, go to do this seemingly easy task.

Can't get either of the fill plugs out. I've used PBlaster, let it soak a day, tried again. No luck. For the diff I've got a long heavy duty 1/2 ratchet and the correct socket. I think I might get this one with a little more work and luck.

For the tranny the fill plug bolt seems to be square? I don't know if someone tried before and destroyed the head, or it just came that way. A 14mm box end wrench fits it, but I'm not sure I could get a long enough wrench (or pipe) on it without having the car on a full lift. I would guess this bolt is original, as there's a bit of paint on it that continues unbroken onto the tranny housing. 88,000 miles can sure make things tough to take apart.

Any recommendations? Otherwise I'm going to have to find a shop to do the change for me, which would be a real pity seeing how I've already bought everything to do it... well, minus air tools.

Maybe I just need to work out more...

[gabkwong]

I did mine much earlier than 80K miles. I remember the first tme I did it was not easy to them off. I guess, just soak it with more Liquid Wrench or whatever. The bolt on the diff is easier since you have more room to work and see better. I actually use the correct size (big) size (not remember the size) on this one. For the transmission, you just has to let the soaking to do the work for you. I too used the box wrench and took great care not to round this sucker or you will be sorry! Good luck!

[channelmaniac]

Pipe wrench works well on the transmission fill bolt. That fill bolt is tapered so don't put it back in super tight or things may crack/break.

As for the rear diff - use a six sided socket to avoid rounding it off and use a breaker bar.

If you don't have a breaker bar I have a 2 1/2' long 1/2" drive bar that will take care of that diff plug. Where are you located? I'm in the Lewisville area.

RJ

[Treibenschnell]

Ozone42, be sure to fill out your location in your profile... someone might be close enough to you to give you a hand!

[ozone42]

Thanks guys. I'm in Krum, which is just north of Denton (filling out profile now.)

Got the Diff. I am really going to feel that tomorrow. I don't have a pipe wrench so will grab one tonight as I have to take the car down and run some errands, but I think you're right and that is the only thing that's going to get the tranny fill plug.

Have a look see: