Draining The Rear End

[John Lokay]

I plan to change the fluid in my 1966 Rear End and realize that there are a number of ways to do this such as: 1) removing the rear end cover; 2) just loosening the rear end cover bolts to allow for a slow drain and; 3) using a suction gun to suck out the existing fluid. It appears to me that removing the cover is the easiest way to go but some people have advised me not to do this and instead use a suction gun. Any thoughts out there? Thanks

[Jim T.]

Re: Draining The Rear End

I have be changing the fluid in my IRS Corvettes since 1968 and I would not do it any other way than using my Plew's suction gun. Does pretty good job. Easiest time I ever had was when the rear exhaust and rear spring was off my 70. Made it so much easier.

[Wayne M.]

[Joe L.]

Re: Draining The Rear End

John-----

Removing the cover is DEFINITELY NOT the easiest way to do this. In order to remove the cover, you really have to remove the differential carrier assembly from the vehicle. That's because the top cover-to-carrier-housing attaching bolts are very difficult to get to AND there are four bolts which fasten the cover(and attached differential carrier assembly)to the crossmember. These bolts can only be removed by first removing the crossmember OR, as some have done, cutting a hole in the appropriate location of the rear compartment fiberglass floor to enable removal of these bolts from inside the car. I won't mention what I think of this "service procedure".

As you mention, another alternative is to drain the assembly by loosening the lower cover attaching bolts which is relatively easy to do. The problem with this approach is that you can't change the gasket and, after retorquing the bolts, you may find that you have a perpetual, small leak which you didn't have before.

The way to do this job is with a suction gun. Absolutely. Positively.

[Brian M.]

Re: Draining The Rear End

Hi John, I agree with the suction method. Just get good and warm before hand. Regards Brian

[Bob Lanham #32271]

Where do you get a suction gun and what does

it cost?

[Joe L.]

Re: Where do you get a suction gun and what does

Bob-----

Very easily. Most automotive supply stores carry them and they are usually manufactured by Plews, which also manufactures grease guns and related lubrication items. These suction guns cost in the $15-30, or so, range.

[Jerry Clark]

Re: Where do you get a suction gun and what does

Hi Bob:

Under the n"No Guts, No Glory principal, just siphon it, I've heard you are tough.

Jer

[Bob Lanham #32271]

My wife told me

to use a straw to drain the anti-freeze. I think I need to get rid of my life insurance.