Has anyone removed their Xmission of Diff unit and had to unscrew the 36mm nut covering the extension shaft on the side of the transmission housing? Is there an easy way to remove the nut. It has a shallow 1/2 inch or 13mm square drive. I can't break it loose and the internal corners of the socket head have started to round off. I have use liquid wrench, but that didn't help. I need to remove the nut to see if the extension shaft turns with the front wheels. I have no drive and a nice grinding noise when selecting any drive position, but I can't tell if the problem is in the Diff or the Transmission.

 

I didn't have to, but it's sounding to me like your diff. When I stuck a socket in there, I was able to turn the output shaft together with the rear cover. I had the tranny out already so I could look inside and see it turning.

~Cheers~

 

Thanks for the reply. Thing is, according to the service manual, I have to pull the extension shaft, to disengage it from the pinion gear, before the Tranny or Diff can be removed. If I could only remove the 36mm nut, at least I could verify where the failure is located. But I do agree with you about the differential. My gut tells me that's where the problem is located.
I don't understand your message where you were able to turn the output shaft with the rear cover after you stuck the socket in it. Could you explain in more detail? Thanks again and Merry Christmas

 

I am having the same problem with my 96 RL the 36mm bolt i cannot get out and it is rounding out. The diff is already but I cannot get it back in without getting that 36mm bolt out I have tried alot of things but it will not budge any hlp out there the snow is coming and i have to get this car running.

 

are you referring to the axle wheel nut?

 

ah no i am refering to the 36 mm bolt behind the differential

 

with nuts that are having a hard time to turn and are either rounding your socket or the nut i would suggest an impact gun. it doesnt keep full pressure on and "bumps" the nut to break it loose.