Ford Escort - 00 1.8 55 Van crunchy gear change from 2-3 - percy
As jc2 asked furher up, is it an IB5 or MTX box?
The MTX has a drain plug, the IB5 hasn't so is difficult to drain unless you pull out a driveshaft. They both have level plugs in the side of the box.
I think the small hole you have found in the top is a breather hole.
How did you drain the oil out?