Re: tranny and diff fluid change tips and tricks? (archive)

Break loose the fill plugs first ! This is good insurance that you don't find your self w/ a locked or destroyed fill plug and a drained tranny or diff you can't refill.

If memory serves me, you will need a pretty hefty allen wrench for the trans & diff plugs. I don't remember the size, but I picked my allen wrench at Sears. The package was labeled as VW transmission drain plug tool. It cost $8.99.

Also needed is a pump to push the fluids into the casings. I picked mine up at Autozone, a metal canister w/ 1 foot clear hose, for about $19.99.

As for fluids, I used Mobil 1 differential oil for my open differential and redline MTL for the trans. The MTL is currently leaking slightly out of my shift rod bushing, something that didn't happen when mineral oil was used. But it only drips 5-10 drops when parked, so I am not in the least bit concerned. THe differential does not leak any.

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Gonna be changing the fluid in my tranny and diff for the first time since I've taken ownership...any hints or tips on how to make this less than fun job easier?

TIA

~Derrick

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