Rear Differential Drain Plug

[Todd762]

OK couldn't find 3/4 stock like one of the members posted so my problem is,

How do I remove the rear diff drain plug? I tried a 3/8th to 1/2 to 3/4 extension but it doesn't give me enough room to get in there. Will a regular 3/4 breaker bar give me enough clearance? Does Ford make a special tool for this?

Thanks,
Todd

 

[waskly]

1/2 inch bar to 3/4 but on the ground its going to be hard it is a tapered nut which is not fun to remove. the longer the bar the better, but again ground clearance.

 

[edwx]

I removed the plug using a 1/2 to 3/4 adapter (bought online for about $10.) You're right, there is not enough room for the ratchet, or a breaker bar, but I was able to get a large adjustable wrench onto part of the 3/4", and there was still enough of the 3/4" part sticking out past the wrench to get into the plug. I also used a pipe to extend the wrench for better leverage. The plug was in tight. Frankly it was a royal PITA, but I probably won't have to do it again unless I put another 100K on it.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=292281

 

[Todd762]

Thanks guys. I bought a 1/2 drive ratchet and put the 3/4 adapter on. Not enough room.

I then put the 1/2 to 3/4 adapter in and used edwx method using a crescent wrench and some SDS (Super Dummy Strength). Finally got it!

Definitely have the pump and tube for the bottle to fill it. Also followed the advice of getting the drain broke free before the fill. They both required some muscle but nothing severe.

Thanks guys,
Todd