Front differential fill plug stuck

Any ideas how to get this this thing out?

 

Usually it's the hex key drain plug that gets stuck, but these are easier to deal with so that's good.

Use a chisel and hammer it in the direction to loosen it, it will eventually break free. Doesn't looked seized on to me

Soak it in some pb blaster could help too.

 

Not much to grab

 

When my drain plug got stripped, I used a Dremel and notched the side of the plug so I could easily stick a chisel into it and hammer it loose. Worked great

 

If it turns out to be well and truly stuck, tack weld an old wrench or socket onto it and then it will come off. That's what a shop would do if they couldn't get it off.

 

Get a 6 point socket.

 

Small pipe wrench should work.

 

Try a 6 point socket with a breaker bar. Get fully engaged and square.

Many times a ratchet handle is too short to generate enough torque to break it loose.

If you haven't already, go to Toyota. You will want gaskets and probably new fill and drain plugs. Get these for the rear diff and xfer case too. Not terribly expensive, but can be nice to have on hand.

 

I was thinking about welding a socket or bolt to it. I would only be able to weld about half way around. (No room to get to it from the top). I figured I’d ask for any other ideas before the hex was completely rounded off.

 

Penetrating oil and heat. I use a small propane torch and measure temps with an infrared thermometer. Spray the oil, heat to 250F, let cool to room temp. Do that 2-3x and that usually does the trick.

 

Hit it with a hammer several times and see if it comes off easily then.

 

All sound like good ideas! So the follow up is the torque spec for these plugs. I’ve read a bunch of different specs but was wondering if anyone here has seen a factory spect to try to keep this from happening in the future.

 

here ya go

 

Hell ya! Thanks dood, that’s awesome

 

Don't forget the washers
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Is there anything wrong with putting a little anti-seize on the plug when reinstalling it?

 

if that's a 24mm(stripped) try to pound on a 23mm or a 22mm, I stipped a 24mm on a mamual trans. fill plug I took it took a quickie oil change place a dude got it off for me at double sawbuck cost

 

No
But use less torque
The plugs seize when washers are left off.

 

this is the first time I’ve changed the diff fluid since I’ve owned the truck. I’m a big fan of torque specs.

 

Its a fill plug. Just use a new gasket and plug (if damaged) then tighten it like you do the oil drain plug. Firm. No need to go Superman gorilla on it.

It isn't a structural piece and the diff isn't pressurized. Its a PLUG.