Missing fill hole on a 3L73 rear???

[schaaed1]

I'll be danged if I can find the fill hole on the rear of my Explorer. It is a 2000 with a 3L73 (from the diff tag). Am I right in that it should be on the drivers side, just above the front pinion area of the case?? I have been out there in the garage 4 times tonight ... looking for that balsted plug ... and it is not there. At least I checked for it before removing the diff cover.

So, here I sit, new bearings, seal, gear lube, etc ... and I'm not sure what to do. Any issues filling the proper qty of lube through the hole for the ABS sensor (after changing the seals & bearings)?

 

[Explorer Junky]

I found mine on the passenger side!Use your finger tip and GENTLY feel around for it. For some reason they can be hard to find.

 

[MrQ]

Its a recessed 3/8 ratchet head plug. It might be a good idea to get it on ramps and clean up the area around the pinion. You'll find it.

 

[schaaed1]

Yep ... the rear is off the ground and wheels are off ... so I have pretty good access. I initially crawled under with the ratchet and extension in hand ... until I realized I couldn't find it.



Edit -
Well one last look before bed ... I found it. It was a bit farther forward than I was expecting ... and partly hidden by the gas tank.