4Runner tranny filter broken bolt

Hey y'all.

I did it this time. I over-tightened and broke off one or four transmission filter bolts. Not sure how, I had my torque wrench set and I can’t explain it, just over tightened and broke it off. The other three bolts are good to go. Is it possible I can go on w three of four bolts fitted correctly on the transmission filter? Or does this require immediate repair by Toyota to get that fourth bolt out and re-do the transmission drain and fill job?

 

I think the lesson learned here is: Don't mess with trannies.

 

After removing the filter, Did it leave enough material to grab onto or is the break recessed?

 

Unfortunately recessed.

 

Did you run the truck in the driveway to see if it leaks?

Do you have good mechanical skills? Have you ever dealt with a broken fastener before, especially in something this expensive to fix if the worst happens and the broken piece gets misdrilled / off center?

 

If that is the case, and based on how you feel on your level of attempting it.. You could try a screw extractor first.

 

I do not trust my abilities to get this bolt out. I’ve put it back together and filled it up, runs great for now. My thought is I may need to bite the bullet and drive it to the dealer to have them redo my drain and fill and extract this bolt.

Just wondering if this is something I don’t have to do for now, maybe wait til the next time I have to drain and fill.

 

If you're going to do this again you need to use a torque wrench. The amount of force needed on these bolts is no where near enough to break them meaning you REALLY over torqued this guy and probably a lot of other things.

Watch some videos on extracting bolts. It's really not that hard. you can start with a sharp punch to make an indent. and then a very small drill bit. And then larger and larger drill bits until you have enough roon for an extractor. I like the reverse threat extractors and am not a fan of the square ones. You use a small adjustable crescent wrench on the extractor.

If you're in the bay area I'll help you do this. about how far in would you say the bolt broke? Do you have the end of the bolt that broke off? is the break flat?

Otherwise....for the amount you probably tightened the rest of the bolts they probably aren't going anywhere. But. it will always be a gamble.

 

Well, in the defense of the OP @Rmmzmb , since his truck is a 2014, I think it is reasonable that he is not the first to pull the pan to check the filter screen. He didn't say how many miles on his truck. It is, as I'm sure you know, common for shops to use power tools on hardware that should not be installed with power tools. My guess is the bolt was previously over torqued and weakened. He did state that he used a torque wrench for installation.

Be that as it may, I also could offer assistance, but like @Thacrow I am also in the Bay Area. I do have quite a bit of experience with removing broken fasteners.

 

I appreciate those perspectives! Unfortunately I’m not in SF, in Denver CO.
Do you think I shouldn’t be driving without that 4th bolt on there?

 

If it was me, I would get it fixed sooner than later. I'm not saying to take it to Toyota because you won't know the level of experience of the technician. If a mistake is made, they won't admit it and want to charge you for an exchange transmission.
If you have a trusted shop that is recommended by a number of people, I would go there.

 

Since the bolt broke on installation (as opposed to a rusted bolt that broke on removal), I would try an extractor. Make the initial dimple with a left-handed drill bit if you can buy a set for cheap.

Since there's an O-ring on the filter to seal and maintain suction, some slight movement with one of the four bolts missing shouldn't cause problems. You should be ok to drive it short term.

 

Why not find a reputable transmission shop? I'm sure they've run across this more than once.

 

I agree with this one right here. You're in a big city. There's going to be a good tranny shop. Google reviews / reddit. Best not to chance it.