Trouble with Diff Plug on 1997 Camry

[bmmgolf24]

The other day I went to change the diff fluid in my 1997 Camry. The Fill bolt came off without a problem; however, I was unable to get the drain plug off. The previous owner must have messed around with the plug. The hex pattern is rounded off, which does not allow for the 10 mm hex bolt to be used.

Does anyone have any advise on how to get this plug off? Obviously if I have to ruin the plug, I need to have a replacement any advise on this?

[dc_98_cam]

There is a particular type of punch tool .... called a 'prick punch'. It has a hardened, sharp point. If you hold the punch at an appropriate angle, 45 degrees or so, and place it at the outer perimeter of the flat portion of the drain plug, you should be able to loosen the plug with several good hammer blows. The sharp point will grip the surface of the plug. Hammer the punch at two or three different locations around the perimeter of the plug. ...
When you finally get the old plug out, replace with a new one.
If you try this technique, and it doesn't seem to be working, you are probably tightening, rather than loosening the plug.

[J.Vincent]

Twice over the years I have had to mig weld an old wrench, once was allen head plug on to the plug itself. I put a big pipe over the wrench and they came out. I think the heat of the weld helped it come out easy. Oh yeah, disconnect the battery first

[bmmgolf24]

Now to the million $ question where do I get the new diff plug if I can get the old one out. My auto store doesn't have one and I cannot find one online.

[95PimpingCamry]

Try the dealership.

[csaxon]

Get a syphon pump to remove the diff oil, then refill.

[Stillrunning]

I'd try to use an 11mm and knock it in tight. OR, try an inch hex that is a little larger.