Differential plug size

[Andrew224]

I'm having a problem finding the right sized hex bit socket for an '03 M45 rear differential drain plug. Anyone here able to assist me?

Andrew

[Q451990]

If it's the same as my G, it's a 10MM hex. Get the socket driver bit so that you can put it on a torque wrench.

If it's never been done be prepared for a lot of metal shavings on the drain plug magnet and in the oil. I am in the process of changing mine with conventional Vavoline 80-W90 at each oil change for a while trying to get it to come out looking fairly clear before I switch to Amsoil 80W-90 for a long term fill. That's the only synthetic 80W-90 I have found...

Good luck!

Heath

[Andrew224]

Thanks, but I don't think it's a 10mm. I'll have to re-check when I have a few minutes to slip under the car. When I was all set to do it a couple weeks ago, 10mm was too large and 8mm was too small. I don't have a 9mm hex bit socket. Seems they are special order only items. Craftsman doesn't even make one. (The Craftsman set I have, has 4,5,6,7,8, and 10. Why they skipped 9mm, who knows?) No one I know has a 9mm hex bit socket that I could try out.

I thought that maybe the first generation Ms for the U.S. had sizes that were more common for overseas (Japan) seeing as the M was around there a lot longer. Maybe 9mm hex isn't rare there? Or maybe it is a 10mm and I just didn't give it a chance.

Before I go and special order one socket for $30 (after shipping and handling), I was hoping someone could confirm.

On my QX4, you don't even need a socket. The rachet (or cheater bar) head fits right in there. I saw the metal shavings and a piece of flash stuck to the plug magnet. Made me concerned with getting the M done soon (35,000 miles).

I'm switching to Mobil 1 full Synthetic 75W-90.

Andrew

[Q451990]

I just checked my set and it skips the 9MM too. I think I would try the 10 again.

I had originally planned on putting 75W-90 M1 in there, but the owner's manual on the G is very specific about 80W-90. Every other Nissan product I have owned has the all too familiar chart about ambient temperature and prefered weights - so I have to assume there's some reason that they want that weight to stay more consistent from cold to hot... I'm not one to second guess things, at least while it's in warranty.

Heath

[qship96]

In South Carolina 75W -90 vs 80W-90 makes zero difference, as you do not experience cold enough outside temps to get either weight oil down to its 75 or 80 "winter" weight,both will act as a 90 weight oil at temps above freezing