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Transfer Case Service Guide

Transfer Case Service Guide

Transfer Case Service Guide

By Torque King

November 15, 2020

A transfer case is crucial for distributing engine power from the transmission to the drive shafts. As such, it's an important component that shapes how your car functions. Unfortunately, as with other types of important parts, transfer case service is essential when you begin to notice signs of wear. In this article, we'll share some of the warning signs of a faulty transfer case, maintenance instructions and when to change transfer case fluid.

About Transfer Cases

Automobiles have many important components that require routine maintenance to keep the car operating safely and efficiently. Whether it's the engine and transmission or the wheels, the quality of these parts can hinder and eventually halt all movement if they go bad. Also, when these components fail, they can endanger the lives of the passengers in the car. For owners of four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles, however, it's critical to perform or request transfer case service at the time scheduled in your vehicle Owners Manual Transfer Case Maintenance Schedule OR when this necessary part begins to malfunction.

The transfer case enables the front and rear axles of the vehicle to work properly. These axles are powered by the energy taken from the transmission, sent to the transfer case and then moved to the drive shafts. Without a transfer case, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive capabilities of your vehicle are rendered useless, making it extremely difficult or even impossible to drive in certain conditions.

Signs of a Faulty Transfer Case

If you don't perform transfer case maintenance when needed, it can cause irreparable damage, leaving you with a hefty replacement cost. So, how do you know when your vehicle needs transfer case service? Here are three major signs to look for:

Unusual Noises

One of the most telling signs of a faulty transfer case is when you start to hear strange noises while driving. These can range from random clicks and hums to irritating grinds. Typically, these noises happen when your vehicle reaches a specific speed or when your transmission shifts gears.

Shifting Problems

Speaking of shifting, you may want to consider transfer case maintenance if you notice that your vehicle can no longer shift smoothly. Sure, this can also be a sign that your transmission is having issues, but you should still investigate further to ensure that you don't require transfer case service.

Inability to Stay in Four-Wheel Drive

Switching to four-wheel drive should be a seamless transition, but when you notice that your vehicle is not performing as intended with four-wheel drive engaged, you'll need to take a look at your transfer case to determine if it needs to be serviced or replaced.

When and How to Perform Transfer Case Maintenance

Although rates can vary, a transfer case service cost can range from low to very expensive depending on what needs to be done. If you simply need to change transfer case fluid as part of the services called for in you 4x4s’ Owners Manual Lubrication and Maintenance Schedule, prices are typically on the low-end around $100; keep in mind, though, that mechanics and shops may charge more. But if the transfer case must be rebuilt or replaced completely, that rate can soar to nearly $3,000. This is why it's absolutely necessary for you to stay up to date on changing your transfer case oil.

Replacing Your Transfer Case Lubricant

Similar to how a standard oil change works, replacing your transfer case oil is relatively easy and requires you to drain and replace the liquid from the component. Unlike an oil change, though, there is no serviceable filter, meaning the transfer case lubricant can become dirty much more easily. Still, unless you're experiencing the faulty symptoms mentioned before, you can change transfer case fluid every 30,000 miles or the mileage/time interval listed in your owners manual to keep it operating at peak performance. If you want to avoid a transfer case service cost and perform maintenance yourself, you'll need to follow these steps:

  • 1. Allow your vehicle to cool down for a couple of hours.
  • 2. Jack the vehicle up and add support stands.
  • 3. Take out the higher fill plug first and then the lower drain plug.
  • 4. After all of the fluid has been drained, put the drain plug back in and add transfer case fluid. Once completely added, reinstall the fill plug.
  • 5. Clean up any leftover fluid, lower your vehicle and it's the transfer case service is complete.

Perform Transfer Case Service With Fluid from Torque King

As a leading manufacturer and distributor of 4x4 parts and tools, Torque King has everything you need for servicing your vehicle with thorough transfer case maintenance. From bearings to transfer case chains, our products are tested to ensure the highest durability for long-lasting use and safety behind the wheel. Whether you need to change transfer case fluid or replace parts altogether, we have you covered. Order today!

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Dec 02, 2020

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