roaminggnome

Well guys got a print out of the rear differential assembly. And I don’t see that damn screw/bolt anywhere.

Tinkertech

SWAG:

Plug magnet picked up the screw from the mechanics work area.

dcova

Your findings does not surprise me. My complements to you for doing your homework and reviewing the printout. By the way, you mentioned that you purchased the car from buyavette in Atlanta but did not mention the name of the shop that serviced the car?

CB56

This post taught me a lesson. I now have a strainer for my oil funnels. I ain't putting a drop of oil in anything until goes through that.

davanz

I agree with previous posts. That did not come out of your differential. Are you SURE it is an honest shop/dealership? Possible plant, just to generate more, (unneeded), service business.

TraceZ

Occam's Razor-

Option 1) - the most probable, giving everyone the benefit of the doubt. - The mechanic dropped the drain plug while blindly turning it out with his fingers. It hit the floor, and magnetically attracted said screw.
The mechanic had no idea, assumed the screw was on it when it fell out.

Option 2) - less probable because it assumes ill will which is less common - The mechanic planted it there to justify charging you for more work.

I saw your post 8/21 and went to look at the parts diagrams for the rear differentials. I didn't find anything resembling the pictured screw either.