what size if the differential hex bolts? I searched and found that it said 10mm but i got a 10mm hex socket and it doesnt work, its too big.....i have a 92 Sc300

 

It is 10mm. Are you sure you are trying to get the right bolt?

 

the ones on the side are 10mm

the one that attaches to the cross member is 12mm

 

they are pretty rusted and stuff, i cleaned them up and they started to fit the 10mm hex socket but wont move at all.......any suggestions on what i should do?

 

Use a breaker bar, or you could use a piece of pipe to fit over the socket handle.



gadgetSC-t

 

Use plenty of WD40 or other liquid penetrant first and let it sit for a while. You dont want to snap the head off the bolt. That would be bad

 

the bolts are torqued from factory to 104lbs (or 102lbs) so it's tight in there.
I used liquid wrench.

I soaked the cracks with liquid wrench 4 applications with 5 minutes in between.
I also sprayed liquid wrench before loosening each bolt.

a breaker bar is absolutely necessary. You won't be able to get it off without (unless you are he-man)

good luck.

 

I just stuck the hex wrench in the bolt real nice and snug, then slid back a few feet and kicked it really hard a few times. Worked like a charm!!

 

yik!!! you can break the bolt if you can kick it.... slow but strong is the way to go. (i did have to push one of the bolts with a hex wrench with breaker bar with my foot)

 

Mehh, my differential didnt mind. Maybe it knew that if it was bad and broke the bolt, I wouldnt give it any delicious Redline gear oil...

 

yum redline.
What did you make of those bolts? They seemed like they were aluminum or titanium.... super super light but super super super strong.

 

not to jack yr thread but my differential is quite soaked with gear lube.
are my gaskets worn out? do i need to overhaul the "pumpkin"?..
the car's got 173000 miles.....

tks!!

 

yes. you need to change the gasket.

 

Hmm, now I think about it, those were some pretty damn strong bolts. Prolly aluminum...but who knows. All I know is that the job isnt too bad if you have a breaker bar or a nice strong foot.

 

there definately not made of aluminum.....i just striped the bolts and was not able to get them off since they were so rusted.....any ideas on how i can get the bolts out now or another way of changing my differential fluid?