17MM allen wrench!

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Originally posted by milehighpan:
I�m finished with the clutch master cylinder portion of my car. Thanks for the guidance Jack, that clevis pin was every bit as hard as you said it might be. It�s always better to go into a project forewarned.
Now I�ve moved on to the tranny, I was going to drain & refill, and the first thing I come across is the need for a 17mm allen wrench!
I don�t think the local tool king is going to have one of these. Has anyone on this forum come up with a good alternative?

Thanks in advance.

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I just purchased a drain tool socket for a VW at Checker Auto Parts for $1.99, does the job perfectly.

A buck99 at checker!! Any more details, what do I ask for, early or late VW, motor oil or tranny?

Thanks.

[This message has been edited by milehighpan (edited 09-27-2003).]

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Originally posted by dkarai:
I just purchased a drain tool socket for a VW at Checker Auto Parts for $1.99, does the job perfectly.

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Here's the label from the tool:
POWERBUILT
VW, BMW, Porsche
Drain Plug
17mm
PN #648438

Tool was hanging on the wall in the socket area of the tool section.

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Originally posted by dkarai:
Here's the label from the tool:
POWERBUILT
VW, BMW, Porsche
Drain Plug
17mm
PN #648438

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Thanks DK,
I scoured the local checkers & NAPA, no luck. I'm going to try the bolt head & locknut method I saw on the ZF forum.

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Originally posted by milehighpan:
Thanks DK,
I scoured the local checkers & NAPA, no luck. I'm going to try the bolt head & locknut method I saw on the ZF forum.

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Milehigh,
More information from the label:
Powerbuilt
1431 Via Plata
Long Beach, CA
powerbuilttools.com
1-800-423-3598

If you wish I can go to the store and grab whats left of the drain tools. My work number is (952) 833-1221. Call and leave your mailing address and I will send you the tool. It's only $2bucks, so it's on me.
DK

Guys I found a set of 3 allens at auto zone they are sockets with allens in them so you can use a ratchet..

DK & Paul,
Thanks for the offers. I really think the bolt idea will work (things popped up this weekend that kept me from getting to the tranny). I�ll definitely let you know if things don�t work.
I guess there just aren�t enough VW�s near where I live.

Big thanks guys!!

There will be some confusion here, as on most ZF transaxles, the drain plug is a std-looking hex-head plug that can be removed/installed with a Crescent wrench, while the Fill plug is an internal hex needing a 17mm allen. But on some Panteras, the ZF hase TWO plugs needing the hex wrench, and a ratchet style socket will not fit in the Fill plug area, due to the proximity of the shifter linkage box & mount. For those that bought a 17mm allen, then found it couldn't be used in the Fill plug, be aware that Allen wrenches are not hardened and CAN be hacksawed with a brand-new blade, going slow with lots of cutting oil. I used an abrasive parting tool, myself.Once you have approx. a 3/4" piece cut off, deburr the new tool and use it with a Crescent Wrench to R & R the Fill plug.

I am one of the people who purchased the large 17mm Allen wrench (Orchard Supply Hardware) Yes! It cost a lot more, $15.99! I found that with enough coersion there was JUST enough room to get around the shifter box, and to the FILLER plug. You can also stick the HEAD of a 17mm Hex Head BOLT (would have to be short,or cut off. or better yet, use a 17mm NUT),in the plug with enough of the head sticking out to grip with a 17mm BOX END WRENCH.(Although I have not tried this). Then you can get to it from underneath the car. Regards, Marlin.

[This message has been edited by MARLIN JACK (edited 09-30-2003).]

[This message has been edited by MARLIN JACK (edited 09-30-2003).]