Thread: lt230 filler - hard to access

Originally Posted by brendanmac

Hi all,

I want to change the oil in my Defender's lt230 but the handbrake cable is blocking access to the filler. I've tried wiggling it gently to make room but it is not budging. Is it normal to be so close to the filler and is it normal for the cable to be so inflexible? What do people do in this situation? Do I undo the cable from the handbrake drum and/or from inside the cab? Do I drop the prop shaft and relocate the handbrake assembly? If so, how do I do that? Surely there is an easier way.

Yes it is normal.
You need a long 1/2 extension bar and ratchet. Then you will get it from behind the brake drum. You may still need to move the HB cable a little.
Do yourself a favor and buy a 1 litre oil hand pump from supercheap or similar as well if you dont already have one.

To add to Craig's post, use a 1/2" wobble drive extension, it makes life easier.

+1. Long extension with ideally a wobble type end will get it done easily.

I use a 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch converter which fits in the plug. Then a 3/8 inch wobble extension just the right length to get between the brake drum and the rear seat floor.

Regards Philip A

Have never had to use a wobble bar, but I use an extension bar that is about 40cm long.

Certainly don't have to use a wobble bar. Just makes it easier as you can come in on an angle. When I first got my D1 I'd just jam a 1/2" ratchet in there directly. Pull back the cable a bit to get it in. But using an extension is so much easier. And a wobble one is easier again
And using a Tom Thumb or similar pump, whilst tedious, gets the refilling job done pretty easily.

I've undone the filler and drain plugs and now ready to refit. The plugs look almost identical except one has a slight recess on the inside face. Unfortunately I can't recall which one is the filler and which is the drain plug. Hope someone can advise.

Originally Posted by DiscoClax

Certainly don't have to use a wobble bar. Just makes it easier as you can come in on an angle. When I first got my D1 I'd just jam a 1/2" ratchet in there directly.

I do this too, 1/2" ratchet straight on there.

I also use a McNaughts hand oil pump.

SUCTION GUN-500ml - Macnaught

C16-01.jpg