PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - '83 300SD Diff filler plug seized

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- - '83 300SD Diff filler plug seized (http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=283284)

I really might try the torch. Today was a defeat because the flexx boots I got were too small for the big Mercedes cans; I ripped one open and the others just will not budge and open enough to go through the cans, so I'm getting a new set of larger ones that should work...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Billybob (Post 2529553)

Why wouldn't you simply drop the differential, take the cover completely off, let it drain, pull the clips and completely remove the axles and reboot them on the bench. Then you can work on the filler plug on the bench also.

Sometimes it can be very difficult to get the axles out of the hub if you don't have the differential jacked up even higher than it usually is positioned on it's mount!

It would seem that working on the axles while they are still attached to the differential is a real ball breaker!

Actually, installing the boots with the axles on wasn't that bad... Had I the correct size for the car, that is. I saw this video on youtube and they show how they work on the axles without taking them off the car (here's the link if nyone is interested: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0bUHxlbBuE&feature=related ) and it looked so simple that I decided to try it. had I had the right size boots, the entire job of putting on 4 boots wouldn't have taken me more than 2 hours, chilling and taking my time, eliminating the step of taking the axles off.
I still kind of want to put new lube on the diff, so I'm trying the torch method, but I'm no longer taking it apart :)

Thanks to all for your valuable input, you're all appreciated!

Negative (And Pluses)

1. The VW in the Video WILL need AT LEAST one brake hose replaced.
[Notice how the "Skilled Technician",just hangs the Caliper by the Hose?]
2.Too Much incentive for the Tech to "Slap That Thang on There" AND
Neglect proper inspection of the Joint's Innards.
3.'Not saying ANYTHING about the "Cleanliness" demonstrated.

Plus
1.Lifetime Guarantee on the boots.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Billybob (Post 2529553)

The cover is supported while still on the differential. With a little heat and a good length bar or the jack trick it will release.

I have no ideal how I would hold the differential cover stationary enough off the car to apply real pressure. Make sure the hex is bottomed in the socket. I would not like to strip it.

The one bolt that always makes me take real precautions is the top starter bolt. If it get striped It could be difficult. Both these bolts usually release with an initial loud snap noise in my experience with no heat especially.

Yes I have found them very tight myself. Yet a combination of a little heat and leverage gets the differential plugs.. They may in fact be a little worse up here in the major rust belt as well. Some teflon tape might help isoate the dissimular metals a little on those plugs.

Quote:

Originally Posted by okyoureabeast (Post 2529360)

I took a cheap socket wrench i didn't mind breaking and used my floor jack to push up on the wrench.

.

Pure genuis. I am adding this to my bag of mechanic tricks.

Thanks

Quote:

Originally Posted by compress ignite (Post 2529821)

1. The VW in the Video WILL need AT LEAST one brake hose replaced.
[Notice how the "Skilled Technician",just hangs the Caliper by the Hose?]

Hahahaha! I noticed that too... I hung my caliper with a steel guitar string I've got for these cases.

I keep a roll of safety wire on hand for this purpose, and occasionally use it to actually secure stuff as well.