trouble checking the rear diff.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 305
Likes: 0
From: Elgin TX
trouble checking the rear diff.
Ok im trying to check my rear differential, well i can get a rench, or anything in there. The spare tire is in the way, does anyone have some shortcuts around taking off the spare tire?
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 3,581
Likes: 28
From: Spring, Texas
Re: trouble checking the rear diff. (Dr_stingray)
If you're trying to check the fluid level, try using a large socket with a ratchet and extension. If you must remove the spare tire cover, it's not hard (one bolt holding lock, and two others at the ends of the reinforcement straps).
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 2,897
Likes: 0
From: Moon Township PA
Re: trouble checking the rear diff. (Dr_stingray)
I fought this identical problem until one day I got fed up. I pulled the spare tire carrier and then took the diff. plug out and cleaned the threads on a wire wheel. After all was reinstalled, I can now remove the plug with a 16 point socket, but I can't remember the size. An eight point won't work at all.
Gary
Gary
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 3,711
Likes: 43
From: San Antonio TX
Re: trouble checking the rear diff. (GaryS)
The proper socket for the rear diff plug is a 5/8" eight-point (or square-drive) socket commony available at Sears or anywhere else they sell sockets. You should be able to easily access the plug without having to remove anything. I've done it many times.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 305
Likes: 0
From: Elgin TX
Re: trouble checking the rear diff. (Dr_stingray)
Thanks guys, i think im just going to take off the spare! I have noticed that the plug is a square 4 sided plug, ive never seen one on a rear diff, is this the stock plug for a 74?
