deus85

I've been having a problem with my rear differential drain plug. I followed the instructions on here to replace the fluid. The car was left in the garage for a week and a half undriven, and upon returning I discovered a slow leak from the plug. It was rusting down there, so that may have caused the seal between the transmission and the plug to be loose. I also replaced the plugs with new ones from the dealer.

I would appreciate any advice on what to do now. It is a hassle to have to open the fill plug to fill up the fluid, so I'd rather find a way to fix the leak.

Thanks.

salimshah

New washer and correct torque.

Salim

deus85

I torqued it to 36ft-lbs. How much should it be? 40ft-lbs?

I purchased the new plugs from the dealer. It didn't come with any washers. Should there be one on there?
If so, what size/etc.
Should I obtain that from the dealer, too?

Thanks a lot!

salimshah

The drain plug is re-usable.

The gasket must be replaced and the proper torque is 36 lb-ft. Although not required, but the dealer has the right part number.

note: both the filler and drain gaskets should be replaced.

Salim

deus85

Thanks a lot.

I had forgotten all about the washings because I threw the old plugs away when I purchased the new ones. I just assumed everything necessary came along with it!

I called the dealer and asked, and purchased the washings today. Pathetic of me; now I have to drain the Royal Purple fluid to put the washings in.

salimshah

Out of curiosity, why did you discard the plugs? Did they get stripped?

Tip: Some times the washers actually prevent the plug from travelling too far.

Salim

deus85

Yes, I stripped the plugs. Would have saved 20 something bucks if I hadn't (not including the washers at $2 a piece)!

I went to Toyota dealership with the old plugs, and was told that they don't have those, and that Lexus is trying to "move away" from Toyota. I guess they want to separate the two lines instead of allowing the parts to be interchangeable so they could charge more for Lexus parts.