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Dana 18 Stuck Fill Plug

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by Scott Graham, Oct 20, 2020.

  1. Scott Graham

    Scott Graham New Member

    So I've been planning on changing the oil in my transfer case and figured I'd start by opening the fill port to feel for the oil level. The only problem is that the fill plug seems to be stuck in place. I've hit it with PB Blaster, tapped on it with a hammer, and gently wrenched on it. My next thought was to use my breaker bar and a socket, although I wasn't able to find a socket that fit very well. I've been nervous to go after it too much, for fear of stripping the bolt. Any other tips? Heat? Impact ratchet?
     
  2. Mcruff

    Mcruff Earlycj5 Machinist

    Isn’t the fill port an NPT fitting that you use either a pipe wrench or Allen key depending on the type of plug?
     
  3. Twin2

    Twin2 not him 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    went out and checked
    9/16 inch 8 point socket 1/2 inch drive
    but not sure if you would be-able to get a 1/2 inch breaker bar on it . near edge of frame
    I always used a big crescent wrench . yep drain plug is 3/8 square allen plug
     
    Scott Graham likes this.
  4. PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

  5. jzeber

    jzeber Well-Known Member 2022 Sponsor

    I bought a set of 12 point sockets just for this. 1/2" drive ratchet.
     
    Scott Graham likes this.
  6. Keys5a

    Keys5a Sponsor

    The plugs are tapered pipe threads. The threads actually tighten into each other (plug/case) to form a seal. A hand impact isn't a good choice for pipe threads. A long breaker bar with an appropriate square or 8 pt socket is best.
    -Donny
     
    Scott Graham likes this.
  7. 47v6

    47v6 junk wrecker! 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    I have a set of double square ,or whatever, sockets just for this. It may be very tight, but you won't break it. They are just pipe thread as stated above.
     
  8. Scott Graham

    Scott Graham New Member

    Thanks all! None of my local hardware stores have 8 point sockets, so I've ordered one. I'm assuming that the plugs on my T90 are the same size as well?
     
  9. ITLKSEZ

    ITLKSEZ Hope for the best, prepare for the worst

    I don’t think I’ve ever used anything but a big adjustable wrench on them.
     
    Walt Couch likes this.
  10. SFaulken

    SFaulken Active Member

    I know I haven't, unless they were a sunken head plug that uses an allen wrench.
     
  11. Buildflycrash

    Buildflycrash More or Less in Line. 2024 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Same here - He just needs a bigger one.
     
  12. Glenn

    Glenn Kinda grumpy old man Staff Member

    Agree on the good size adjustable wrench. Of course there's always the chance someone previously over tightened his.
     
  13. Twin2

    Twin2 not him 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    or already used a pipe wrench . on and off
     
  14. Richard in AZ

    Richard in AZ I just don't understand the like of patina

    Like the one on the right in the photo[​IMG]
     
    Scott Graham and Fireball like this.
  15. Wmi68CJ5

    Wmi68CJ5 Let the Sun Shine!

    might try a metric socket to get a good tight fit also 16mm?