So I got busy yesterday and started doing a full fluids replace, did the gearbox and Transfer case up front, then jacked the back to do the rear diff and noticed that the rear diff fill plug was hard to get to, theres a mount bolt just near it that kicks the socket up slightly and I started heaving on the my socket leaver and opps...it started moving and the socket didnt, I managed to save it but damaged the bolt head enough for me not to want to try again. So the bolt is stuck and aint going anywhere, for now I'll leave it as I have a track day in a couple of weeks and dont want to chance anymore damage.

By the way I know its 17 mm so I have the right socket, I think it had been damaged a bit before and I couldnt get a good bite on it. Ok anyway, what now? Do i try heating it up with a gas torch and have another go at it? or maybe some vice grips? Has anyone had experiance with this type of thing? Not sure but I noticed all the fill plugs were so damned tight maybe over torqued.

 

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-10-pc...p-00952166000P

try something like this and then replace the stripped part

 

If you cant get it, you can pull the diff, weld a nut to it, and use the nut to get it out. And I the future, torque it to spec. That plug is only torqued to 20-25ftlbs IIRC..