Thread: Slotted Diff drain plugs

I made this a few years ago. Works well.
Or just use a bit of flat bar and a shifter.
I like these plugs because they are protected from rocks.
Terry

Originally Posted by bemm52

How do I get them out?

IMG_2816.jpg

and is there a better replacement?

Cheers Paul

Old days, there was a tool. Just make something. In the past I have used two BIG screwdrivers coming from opposite directions, if that makes sense. I have used the jaws of an open ended spanner, one that fits tightly in the slot, with a shifter to turn it. You can even turn them using a parallel pin punch. Don't use a centre punch or cold chisel. The plug can expand and make it harder to undo, plus, it's brass, so you'll just cut it.

Agree with Terry. They are protected from rocks etc. Modern equivalent is a 1/2" square socket that you can put a standard breaker bar or ratchet into.

i use a cold chisel that drops into the slot and a shifting spanner

i have an one here with a hex head but i much prefer the slotted head units.

Originally Posted by incisor

i use a cold chisel that drops into the slot and a shifting spanner

i have an one here with a hex head but i much prefer the slotted head units.

Me too. One reason, amongst others, is I can always find something to undo them with. The others, it only takes a knock or a bid burr to prevent the tool, that is, the only tool that will fit, from working. Another thing, it's hard to overtighten a slotted one.

I made one like Rover 56, using a old long tyre lever.
One end had a bend, I built up with weld, then ground down, and rounded to a perfect fit. Light tap to put in.


whitehillbilly

Originally Posted by johntins

Old days, there was a tool. Just make something. In the past I have used two BIG screwdrivers coming from opposite directions, if that makes sense. I have used the jaws of an open ended spanner, one that fits tightly in the slot, with a shifter to turn it. You can even turn them using a parallel pin punch. Don't use a centre punch or cold chisel. The plug can expand and make it harder to undo, plus, it's brass, so you'll just cut it.

Agree with Terry. They are protected from rocks etc. Modern equivalent is a 1/2" square socket that you can put a standard breaker bar or ratchet into.

Forgot. Sometimes one of those tools that undoes the disks on an angle grinder can work.

Looks like I'll have to dig around my sheds for something that fits slot

Cheers Paul

Originally Posted by bemm52

Looks like I'll have to dig around my sheds for something that fits slot

Cheers Paul

Best plan, IMHO. Keep it, 'cos you'll need it.....