Does anyone make a special tool to remove the diff fill plug on a '72 A body 10 bolt rear?

 

Dave - Yours isn't a 3/8" socket drive? Is yours Torx type?

 

Doesn't look like this I guess which accommodates a 3/8" socket drive?

 

Show me a picture

 

Yep..it looks like the one Norm pictured above. I've been using a 3/8 drive ratchet with a short extension, but it's a bit cumbersome, so I was wondering if there was perhaps a special tool made that maybe would be a bit easier.

 

The correct tool is an air chisel aimed at 2:00, when you strip that plug out.

 

Line up the socket ratchet extension well on center, provide a couple good wraps w/ a hammer. I've seen socket drive extensions containing the small lock "ball" be so filled w/ gunk/grease/rust/paint, etc. the lock ball doesn't budge - ensure the socket extension if it has such a ball is clean w/ freedom of movement. Smack it w/ light blows of a hammer - it should go in. Good Luck!

 

That's good stuff right there.

 

Ahhh...I'll try that next time

 

Dave - Use a small bugger - no longer than say ~3" - 4" extension. Several whacks it should pop in.

 

Norm-I think the one I use is a 3"

 

I use a 1/2" > 3/8" adapter. Short, fat and easily whacked.

 

Then I pop a 2' long 1/2" breaker bar into that 1/2" > 3/8" adapter.

 

If its rusty or has a thick layer of paint, it pays to scrap the square hole out with a pick or flathead. That build up can make them easy to strip. If it hasn't been out in awhile then put the torch right to it.

 

Does that give you enough reach, or do you still need an extension?

 

Yes, as I recall. If not, it gets an extension. I am not lacking in 1/4" >< 3/8" >< 1/2" adapters, extensions & 45° swivel adapters.

 

I bought this pipe plug socket set. Ford uses a 3/8" male pipe plug to adjust the intermediate band on the side of the C6 in my 86 F250.

 

exactly, been down that road many times. Had to comment on this.... Lol

 

I've found that an impact wrench is a good way to loosen rusted plugs like this without damage.

 

So I took your advice Norm and invested in a pipe plug removal tool. I also knew that from the last time I took the plug out that it felt kinda beat up, so I replaced that as well.

 

Ya think? LOL

 

Clean the gunk from the hole in the plug. Use a 3/8 extension, or ideally the proper 3/8 square drive socket. Give it a couple of good hits with a hammer, then try to remove it. If it comes out, great. If not, get the smoke wrench. Heat makes every bolt easier to remove.

 

Matt - Dave said he replaced the plug.