Differential Cover Plug Alternative
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Newport Rhode Island
Differential Cover Plug Alternative
Hi,
I was planning to replace my differential fluid today -- and getting the plug off was a major headache. Initially I tried a 18MM 12pt socket -- but it started to strip the square plug. Then I removed the spare tire and was able to get the plug out with a wrench. After adding posi fluid and topping it off with gear oil (the cheap "pump" I got at Walmart was not working so I will have to peform the fluid change next weekend...)
I put the plug back in with a wrench -- but was not able to get it all the way back in fear I would strip it even more.
Now my question: Is there an alternative to the square replacement plug ($12 at Ecklers)? I figure it will give me the same kind of trouble. I would rather have something that will make my differential more "serviceable" and work with regular sockets. Alternatively, where would I find a square socket to work with the plug?
Many thanks.
I was planning to replace my differential fluid today -- and getting the plug off was a major headache. Initially I tried a 18MM 12pt socket -- but it started to strip the square plug. Then I removed the spare tire and was able to get the plug out with a wrench. After adding posi fluid and topping it off with gear oil (the cheap "pump" I got at Walmart was not working so I will have to peform the fluid change next weekend...)
I put the plug back in with a wrench -- but was not able to get it all the way back in fear I would strip it even more.
Now my question: Is there an alternative to the square replacement plug ($12 at Ecklers)? I figure it will give me the same kind of trouble. I would rather have something that will make my differential more "serviceable" and work with regular sockets. Alternatively, where would I find a square socket to work with the plug?
Many thanks.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 98
From: Ontario
For that square plug you need a 5/8", 8-point socket (not 6 or twelve).
It works very well. The breaker bar was necessary after 97,000 miles. The plug went back in with anti-seize.
It works very well. The breaker bar was necessary after 97,000 miles. The plug went back in with anti-seize.
Last edited by Paul L; Apr 1, 2012 at 08:17 PM.
