Transmission Fill Plug

[alex.rhodes]

Anyone have any advice about how to remove the transmission fill plug on a 2000 2.7 5-speed? I have a 17mm hex key and a 17mm hex socket. The fill plug is partially stripped (rounded edges) and I cannot break it loose. I cannot break it loose with arm strength or a hammer.

I know I will require a new fill plug, but what are my options for removal? Should I keep trying to remove it and risk further stripping the plug? Would it be better to admit defeat and have a mechanic remove the plug? If I have the mechanic remove the plug, should I have them do the whole job or just remove the fill plug?

I bought the car from a Lexus dealership a few months ago and the car went through a multi-point inspection, but with the plug being partially stripped and frozen in place I don't think they checked it. I'm not sure if the fluid was ever changed and first and second are hard to shift into when cold.

Alex