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Differential oil drain plug

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RandallRK

RandallRK

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Just wondering what you use to remove the oil drain plug from the differential of a Healey 100-4 (BN1)?

It's so simple, requiring a square insert but I can't find a suitable tool short of making one... there has to be an easy source/ solution. Your help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
RK
 
RK,
For the BN-2(if I'm not mistaken) you can just stick a 3/8ths or 1/2" ratchet wrench in the square drive hole ( I can't remember what size I use) and it grabs enough to unscrew the plug. If I'm wrong about the size just get a square thing that fits, and use a vise grip or pipe wrench to turn it.

Jon
 
I tried a 1/2 socket for starters and it didn't seem big enough.

I've been hunting for a suitable 'square thing' but haven't seem to find the right one yet... I guess the hunt continues!
 
If it is like the later diffs, it takes a 7/16" square drive. I took an old 3" long 1/2" rachet drive extension and ground the male end down to fit. Then you can use it with a 1/2" breaker or rachet.

Mark
 
Hi Randal, What do you mean :"it didn't seem big enough"??--Keoke
 
OK, that makes sense- I'll get out the tools and go to town on an extension until it fits.

Thanks for the comments, it gives me peace of mind I'm not missing some really obvious tool to use.

As for the "big enough" comment, I'm not even sure where to go with that one! Let's just say "it didn't fit right."
 
I used a 2” piece of 7/16” square bar in a 7/16” 8-point socket, ½” drive.
 
/bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/savewave.gif

Yeah that figures Greg .I thought you musta been drinkin sumpin.---Keoke-- /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/jester.gif
 
That was ONLY placed there for size reference, I'll have you know. <span style='font-size: 8pt'>(hiccop)</span>
 
Hello RK. I've used the extension alone with some success. However, to possibly keep from marring the plug you could insert a flat bladed screwdriver as a wedge, then turn the plug out. I usually coat the plug with a sealant to make it easier to remove.
Good Luck
 
wow, a bunch of great solutions... thank you. I can't wait to get home and try them out in the coming week.
 
RandallRK said:
wow, a bunch of great solutions... thank you. I can't wait to get home and try them out in the coming week.
Click to expand...

Yep. just stay away from that 'Black Lager' and you will be good to go.--Keoke-- /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/grin.gif
 
keoke, when i went to removed mine (female configuration) it was cracked around the outer edges got it out with some drilling and an easy out and replaced it with the "male" type plug, much easier to remove/install no special tools required, yah i know what will the judges think? /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/rolleyes.gif
 
Yeah! 7777's and I know jest where you found dat plug!---Keoke---Keoke-- /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/laugh.gif
 
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