[Fishstyx]

Hi All,

I just picked up a used 2014 Zforce 800 and I've been giving it a fluids overhaul and the drain bolts on both diffs are seized. The rear one started to round out so it may be toast. I figure I have two choices. Either I leave it be and suck the oil out the fill or I take it to the shop to have them remove them, which could ultimately mean drilling them out.

Anyone ever had this problem or any advice?

Thanks.

[NMKawierider]

Yeah they are soft steel bolts threaded into aluminum. They will seize easily unless a couple of steps are used. 1- always use an anti-seize or a teflon pipe dope on the threads and seal surface and 2- resist the temptation to over tighten them. They will not come loose if torqued to spec...and that's pretty low.

I think they take an 8mm allen so nothing else except that should be used and completely inserted. Using that 8mm allen, you can try a couple of things. One, heat the case with a torch next to the plug to expand it a little and hopefully release it. Don't heat too much on any one spot and remember you have oil on the other side. 2-with a brass pin and hammer, smack firmly but not too hard on the head a couple of times to shock it into releasing or 3- tough to do on the front but get in there with either vice grips or a sink connection tool and grab the outside edge of the bolt. One like this but you might need to grind it down skinnier:  https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Basin-Wrench-16PL0127/304217758