markc123

I went to change the transmission fluid on a friends 83 SC and found that the drain plug is stripped beyond repair.
Is there any other way to drain the fluid?

ron mcatee

The only plugs I know of are the drain and fill plugs. Never drain until you have loosened the fill plug. If it is stripped (as you say it is), you need to get a large vise grip capable of locking onto the out edge of the plud. there should be a small ridge (outer edge) for this. If there is any way to get an easy out tool in the remaining area of the plug where the hex wrench usually goes), I would use it also to help during removal since they bite fairly well into the metal. It may take two people to get it busted loose due to the torque involved.

Roamer

Try a pipe wrench and a torch. The vice grip will slip off, I know from personal experience. Chances are the plug was stripped because it was frozen. It took a LOT of heat and a LONG pipe wrench to finally break mine free last year.

Good luck . . .

scottb

Some people say the only way to remove it at this point is to take it to a muffler shop and have a large nut welded on to it. While they're under there, have them heat the area around the plug and then try to break it loose. The heat and long wrench method will generally work, but be careful. Don't take it out until you're ready to drain the fluid and replace it.

markc123

I think I will have to go with scottb idea..