Panic, lost tool in diff! ECGS

I'm in full on panic mode... The effing ECGs puller tool piece fell into the diff!! How the heck do I get it out? Btw I did put paper towels In the diff to prevent this so I'm not full retard, just partially. Any ideas?

 

if your not in a hurry you can always open the diff cover and take the tool out .

 

fish around with a flexible magnet and hope for the best. otherwise you'll have to remove the front diff and split it apart. good luck!

 

Btw I realize this is second gen but they are the same for this purpose, and I'm (hoping) since more people have installed this for 2nd gen (issue not common with -st gen) that there might be a tip...

 

Fuh.... That was what I was afraid of. I need to get a flexi magnet tomorrow I guess. Didn't know there was such a thing! I guess any auto parts store would have this? Man I am so bummed. Thanks for the tip man. Any others? Keep em' coming . Otherwise my next post will be asking how to reattach my head after wifey finds out that the 2hr job turned into indefinite.

 

Reading the description of this tool gave me hope: http://www.arizonatools.com/claws-pickups-and-hooks/detail/ULLHT2FL/

Also going to get some uber long and thin pliers, since I highly doubt the piece will be pulled up oriented in a convenient way...

Will update with status for future reference of online community.

 

The tool that fell in, what does it look like?

Can if fit out the drain plug? You may be able to look into the drain plug to see where it is. A boroscope would help with this too

 

It's about 1/2-3/4" by 1.25" . Not to thick, maybe 3/8"? Def not coming out the drain hole BUT I may be able to use the drain to orient or better see where the tool is. Good idea!

I'm really not that mechanically inclined so if you think of something 'obvious' please don't be shy I surely won't judge.

 

Give ECGS a call. They might have an idea for you.

 

Thx, I will. Sent an e-mail this evening. What chase said in his video on install really concerns me though - something to the effect of 'block this off so you have a CHANCE of recovering the tool if it falls'

 

You'll probably have to pull diff.

 

Well , I certainly hope not. If i do... Can you provide insight on this ? Looks like once it is dropped, might be as simple as cracking the bolts around the pumpkin and removing tool piece, and installing bushing.

Anyone know torque specs on these bolts, just in case? If you have an easily sent fsm, pm me, I'll give you my email.

 

I've never mucked with a front clamshell but there are instructions on ECGS site. http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/p-23663-techarticles.html

 

Ouch, I am sorry to hear about your issue. Are there any forum members that live close to you, Someone might be able to help you. I hope you get it straightened out soon.

 

That will be my last resort, once I'm b@!!5 deep in removing the diff. We'll see how the magnet tool works... Honestly I'm less scared of the diff than my wife if the truck isn't movable by Saturday.

 

I'll be honest I don't know what the ECGs puller tool is. But just in case you aren't aware...If you have to seperate the diff you have to pull both the axle shafts first, or it ain't coming apart...

Edit:
I think I figured out that its a bearing pulling tool. If so, I retract my statement since you probably already know and have at least one out.

 

I followed a great guide on pulling out the axles. Just read the tutorial posted above from ECGs - need tierod end puller. Other than that I 'think' I have the tools and nards to attempt dropping the diff.

Edit: I was shocked at how easy it was to disconnect hub and remove cv, especially with electric impact.

 

keep us posted

 

I would try to find one of those hand held borescope cameras to borrow. You could insert it in the drain and see what you are doing to try to pull it out of the top.

 

Yeah, I wonder if autozone rents them. I'll ask tonight.