A Fluid Drive Head-Scratcher

[Guest chieflander]

I realize I am not extremely well versed and traveled in antique automotive repair, but I still managed to sink to a new low. I was trying to check the fluid level in the Fluid Drive, and the filler plug was characteristically stuck. So I greased it down with WD-40, let it sit, and then dove in with a socket wrench. In trying to turn it, the drum moved, and so, I couldn't get to it. In trying to get the socket wrench out of the hole, the socket came off and fell into the case behind the torque converter. I realize this wasn't the best outcome, but please tell me there's hope. Can i get it somehow without removing the transmission? (For that matter, I'm not especially fond of the socket, I could just leave it in and hope it doesn't sheer off the fins...) <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

[Mark Shaw]

Try using a strong magnet from the outside to move the socket to an accessable place. Then use another "pencil magnet" to remove it from the inside.

[Guest chieflander]

I've tried moving the socket over toward the filler plug opening on the passenger side, but i can't actually find it. I've dragged a magnet all over the bottom of the pan, and I can't even hear it rattling around. I used a long telescoping magnet to "fish" around inside the case, but I still can't find it. Any further suggestions?

[Rusty_OToole]

Next time you will know to stuff a rag around the hole, this is always a good idea.

Is there a removable inspection plate at the bottom? There should be at least a place to take out the drain plug. Maybe if you turn the fluid coupling, slowly and gently, by hand, the socket will work its way to the bottom where you can fish it out? Or even fall out by itself.

[Guest Silverghost]

If you can find a small strong magnet to attach to a bendable wire or string you could put it in the hole that you dropped your socket into...

move it around...and sooner or later you will catch that pesky stray socket.

There might be some sort of sheet metal inspection cover on the bell housing that can be removed...I an not sure about your car...

I would not leave it in there if you think there is any chance it might jamb-up...

Don't feel too bad...

We have all done similar things like this...

The more work you do on your car... yourself

The more you learn !

Good Luck !

[Guest chieflander]

I was told about the rags idea, but i didn't expect the socket to come undone. I was going to put them in once i got the plug freed. When I was working the plug, the whole drum turned and the socket got jammed between the case of the FD and the plug. There is a grill on the bottom, but i'm not sure if it comes off. (There's one on both sides, maybe one or the other comes off.)I have attacked it with a fairly strong magnet, and I've tried rotating the drum, both by hand and with the starter, and i haven't heard a satisfying clang or clunk. I'm sure with my luck it's completely jammed between the drum and the case.

[Bhigdog]

If the outer case is cast iron or steel moving a magnet around the outside will have no effect on the socket on the inside. If there are grills or access plates I'd remove them even if they are rivited on and spend some time fishing with as stiff a wire as I could manage, trying to dislodge the socket. I don't think I would ever run the engine until I either found it or was absolutely certain it would not get jammed. Ask around and see if you can find someone with a fibre-optic bore scope to locate it.......bob

[Guest chieflander]

Alright. I finally got it. There was an inspection screen on the side, so I actually had to break through it, which wasn't too bad... I was able to fold it back down. I simply stuck the magnet in the side, and after 2 tries, I pulled it right out. I actually don't believe it would have gotten caught in the FD drum, but I'm still glad it's out.