[TFetIII]

Replaced the transmission fluid on my 2011 Crew the day after Thanksgiving, and am wondering what the secret is to removing the fill plug? The rear vertical frame support keeps you from getting a socket and extension on it enough to break it loose, and I didn't have the correct allen wrench to try to finagle it in between the frame and tranny to try to break it loose. Was able to get the drain plug out with no problems. Ended up having to fill through the vent, which was a trick because since I couldn't get the fill plug out, there was no draw to allow the fluid to enter. Ended up having to loosen the drain plug a little and slowly pour a small amount of fluid at a time into a small funnel, and use a wire to break the suction to allow it to drain. Needless to say, it took a while. Obviously, I should have made sure I could get the fill plug out BEFORE draining the fluid...will certainly do that next time.

Anyhow, anyone have trick to removing the fill plug?

Thanks

 

[StannieXP800]

I just use an Allen wrench for both the fill plug and drain plug. It helps me to not over tighten both when I reinstall them.

 

[John WL]

Buy an extra 8mm hex socket. Cut the hex off until it's only about 3/8" to 1/2" long - when you insert it into the bolt, make sure it's completely seated inside the hole. With this shorter length socket, you can push your 3/8" ratchet extension into at an angle, just enough to get a bite. If the plug wasn't put in by a Gorilla, you should be able to get it out this way. Put some anti-seize grease on the plug thread when you put it back in. Also, I have an old piece of a 14 ga extension cord that I cut and fir the the end of it into the hold on the plug. It's perfect to hold the plug on the end of the cord while you place it over the drain hole and thread it into the opening.