Stripped front diff drain plug

Apparently this is a common issue, right?

I did some looking around and apparently this can be used to fix the problem. Anyone else do this? Should I get these Lexus plugs instead?

thanks.

https://adventuretaco.com/a-front-diff-drain-fill-plug-that-doesnt-suck/

 

It's common, but if you replace it and don't crank down on it, there's no issue.

You need a quality 10mm Allen key.

Put a ballpeen against the drain plug, and hit the ballpeen with another larger hammer, this works for me 90% of the time to free it up.

 

thanks. I’ll remember this when I replace the plug.

 

Tons of threads on here validating that P/N above as well as your reason to switch (stripped head). I haven’t yet but will replace at next diff oil change.

Don’t forget to replace the crush washer too.

 

Biggest trend in all the threads I’ve read through on this topic is the hex recess in the bolt is dirty enough that the Allen key won’t seat fully. I like the steps you just described, but if there’s sediment and dirt packed in there (or even corrosion), might still be necessary to clear that out with a little pick and then forced air first.

I think all of the above is why some choose to switch, to make things easier.

 

yeah mine was crusty. It didn’t seat well and I stripped it. I should have cleaned it.

 

A shot of brakeclean before you make an attempt on those hex and torx type bolts work wonders.

 

Call me a weirdo but I take a dental pick and clean them hex holes like a dentist scrapes plaque. Also I miss Sears and being able to exchange crap tools for free ones when needed.

I like this plug mod, Allen keys just don’t belong in certain applications…

 

Sweet, thanks for the info, just ordered as I’m about to change fluid and good to have this as backup if the stock ones strip

 

just don't use those cheapo black allen wrenches with the soft metal. those suck.

 

I swapped mine out for the Lexus plug on my last drain and fill. I figured why hassle with the Allen head when there are better options.

 

I did all of the above, dental pick, break-free spray, seated my 10mm allen properly etc. It was even torqued to correct spec 48 ftlbs last time I did it. I had to weld a nut to it to remove and switched to the lexus plug. This is a common issue. The front diff drain plug is one of the highest torque specs of any part on the vehicle and toyota was goofy enough to make it an allen. Make the switch and never worry again.

 

The factory 10mm plug is too soft of metal to take seriously. If torquing to spec (48 ftlbs), throw that crap away and run the lexus plug.

 

48 is crazy high. I think I did 25 on all mine. They don’t loosen up with a new crush washer underneath.

 

It is crazy high but who are we to question the gods ha

 

what's the part number for the crush washer? cheapest place to buy lexus plug?

 

Got mine from ssl-parts.com. Was $23 for both plugs and shipping. Crush washer I bought as a full set on Amazon awhile back not sure of the individual part number

 

can't get over how expensive these oem plugs/gaskets are. they must make a killing on them.

 

I got my plug new off of eBay and as Amazon was sold out. You don’t want that hex plug you linked, you want one with a nut end.
Like this:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2221532950...IHGUt66TdG&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

 

1. Brush
2. Dental pick
3. Kroil
4. Drink a beer
5. TEKTON 1/2" Drive Impact Screwdriver Set (7-Piece) | 2910
   https://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-2910-2-Inch-Manual-7-Piece/dp/B000NPUJYE
   
6.