Subject: re: Steel plugs in aluminum!

[C1J1Miller@aol.com]

kavanagh@kodak.com (David Kavanagh staff) wrote:
> 
> Help! I'm having problems finding the right method to loosen the drain plugs
> from my rear diff! I replaced the fluid in my tranny a month or more ago,
and
> didn't have these kind of problems! I can't seem to get the front drain
> plug or the fill plug to budge. I've applied moderate heat (propane for
> short durations) and buggered up the hex in the plug as much as I dare
before
> trying something else. Is there something that will chemically free these
> plugs from that aluminum housing?
-----
Ken replied:
I'm curious to hear what suggestions are offered.  I still have a stuck 
fill plug, and I recently noticed what appeared to be some gear oil on
the bottom of my tranny.  Also, the tranny seems much more sensitive (easier 
to grind) than before, leading me to think I am low on tranny oil.
------------
Best solution is to buy the snap-on "socket" that ends in a 17mm hex head.
Clean out the plug well with a small screwdriver, then use a long wrench with
the snap-on piece.  Snap-on tools are available through most mechanics.
Use penetrating oil, and give the plug a few firm raps.  If it is frozen, I've
seen recommendations for heat then cold (dry ice?) then the above. HTH, Chris
Miller, Windham NH
'91 200q => http://members.aol.com/c1j1miller/index.html