School me... what tool to open rear diff?

[realm]

Trying to check fluids in differentials. Front was easy, but what is the square tool to open the rear diff fluid filler?
It's a square thing... is it just a standard ratchet or a certain square socket size or something?
Didn't want to try with wrong thing too much and strip it.

Thank you.

--Learning

 

[dc3coyote]

is it a rescessed square, like on Rockwell axels? is so its just a 3/8 ratchet, I believe

 

[realm]

Correct, recessed square... thanks!

 

[YellowHammer]

That's correct. Just use a 3/8 drive extension.

 

[dc3coyote]

wow Idont normally offer usefull advice, even better on something I have never seen.

 

[AJMBLAZER]

Word of advice if it's in there firmly try and tap the 3/8" end of a 3/8" - 1/2" adapter in and then put your 1/2" ratchet on it. I usually find I can't get them loose with the 3/8" ratchets. They're usually just not long enough for me to get the needed torque on them.

 

[SmokeyDod]

Just take a pc of pipe or tubing slide over end of your ratchet handle and pull

 

[Crash_AF]

I push with my foot, much more torque there...

Later,
Joe

 

[LanceRobson]

If a socket adapter is not a tight fit, measure it and get a piece of square key stock to fit. I get mine at the local tractor supply or Fastenal.

I usually put a few minutes of heat from the propane torch on they to lessen the chance of stripping them. Once stripped they are a major PITA to remove.

Lance

 

[AJMBLAZER]

Good advice there. I dunno what Suzuki put on my wife's drain plugs but after 6 years they won't budge. Now I need to loosen AND replace several.

 

[neilhendrix]

All of mine are 1/2". I have found over many years on my MV and in my job that the best way to keep from slippage or rounding it out is a GOOD fit with the ratchet. Clean out the trash or paint. A steady pull even if you use a cheater bar.

Neil

 

[Lifer]

An impact wrench works pretty good, too, if they're stuck. Got several "impossible" plugs out that way.

 

[realm]

Where is the fluid level supposed to be on the rear diff?

 

[jimm1009]

oil level

All gearboxes were originally fill to spill and then later changed to fill it up to
where the first joint of your index finger just allows your finger tip to get wet.

Jim

 

[jimm1009]

axle filler / drain plugs

I would rather think that they are 1/2 inch square drive.
I had one like that too and I used a 1/2 drive extension and a 1/2 drive impact wrench set on low torque and pressure.
The rat-tat-tat vibration was enough to keep it seated and break it loose.

Jim