Sometimes those plugs can really corroded in place. I have had to use heat
and I have even split the hex on some. An "L" shaped Allen key cut to clear
the exhaust pipe and a pipe handle extension will often be the best tool to
get it loose. If it starts to split before moving get someone with an
oxy-acetylene to heat the housing to loosen it. Plan to replace the plug
after you tweak it this way.  When installing some pipe sealant or Permatex
will prevent the corrosion from causing this again.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
David Klein
Sent: Wednesday, May 02, 2012 10:45 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.V ANAGON.COM
Subject: 1986 syncro westy stuck transmission drain plug

Hi,

Tried many things to get the plug out but can't get it out. I am waiting for
the special 17mm Allen socket from van-cafe. I used the bolt and nut option
but broke bolts 5 times.

Any tricks that people have would be appreciated. Also any don'ts would be
appreciated too.

Thanks, David