Transmission fluid and differential problems

[bshovers]

Okay so I went to change my MT with MTL and Im pretty sure these aren't the original bolts correct? Since there HEX bolts? Anyone know what size they might be? I also have differential fluid i plan to be replace but wasn't planning on doing it tonight and noticed a leak....great....I just read that sometimes just tightening the bolts works has this worked for anyone? Either way Im going to buy new bolts for the transmission fill and drain plug. For the differential I'm going to buy new drain and fill plugs and gaskets.

Long story short just confirming that these are in fact not the original transmission drain and fill plugs. Also what are peoples experience with differential leaks?

[Avetiso]

Mine were hex bolts. Original.

[bshovers]

Mine were hex bolts. Original.

Weird every DIY I've seen they say 17mm bolts

[danewilson77]

Hex. Those are correct.

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[LivesNearCostco]

Those look like originals to me! I broke one my first time and had to buy a generic transmission plug and use it for a few years. I think it was a M18 plug. Worked fine but stuck out an extra 6 or 7mm.

They don't sell the gaskets for the diff cover any more--you're supposed to seal it with RTV.

[bshovers]

What size are the drain and fill plugs?

[danewilson77]

Tranny = M18x1.5

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Drivetrain/Manual_Transmission/ES42331/

Diff = M22x1.5

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Drivetrain/Differential/ES205597/

[LivesNearCostco]

The tranny drain and fill plugs are the same. I think the proper socket is an 8mm hex. The diff plug uses either a 14mm or 17mm hex socket.