stuck top plug w123 diff
 

Tried to change out the diff fluid this morning, but couldn't get the top plug off with a 14mm allen socket and a breaker bar.

Wonder what is safe to try? heat, cold, impact wrench, etc.

I sprayed some PB Blaster on there, but I doubt it will help much.

I had that problem too.What I did was put in tight fitting allen,used another jack on the allen,using the weight of the car to break it loose.

if you decide to use heat... heat the housing only. Not the plug.

I had that problem when I was changing my axles. Since I had to take the diff apart anyway, I pulled the diff cover with the plug still in it, clamped the cover to a workbench and heated it with a propane torch. It then came out easily. You should be able to do the same trick with the cover still on the diff.

The problem is the usual one of dissimilar metals, a steel plug in an alloy cover. Use a sealant (Teflon tape) or some anti-seize when you put the plug back in.

Jeremy

X2

Heat around the outside of the plug with a propane torch for about 60 seconds.

The plug will come right out.

thanks for the tips

I'll try propane tonight.

Its easy to break both those plugs open by setting the handle of the breaker bar on a floor jack, and lifting on it. Then you have 2000lbs of car popping it loose. :D Works for me every time if its stuck.

Mine came right out with an impact wrench.

Dry ice.

Use anti seize on the threads when you replace it, make it easier to remove next time.

I use it on most everything.

Charlie

Most people don't just have some of that laying around. :D

I soaked the plug in PB blaster for 2 days and then used a old torque wrench and it came off after a little bit of pulling.

I've got an impact wrench and a floor jack...I just wanted to check before I got medieval on it. It works now, I don't want to make it not the case.

don't use a impact wrench!!!!!!

Yes, an impact is the quick way to crack the housing.