Transfer Case Fluid Replacement

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Determine the VIN of the vehicle:
   • If the VIN is 56TDN13E778100102 or prior, proceed to step 3.
   • If the VIN is after 56TDN13E778100102, perform steps 3–9 and 14 only.
   
3. Remove the transfer case drain plug (1) and drain the fluid.
4. Apply pipe sealant GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) to the threads of the transfer case drain plug.Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.
   
5. Install the transfer case drain plug (1).
   Tighten
   Tighten the transfer case drain plug to 25 Y (18 lb ft).
6. Remove the transfer case fill plug (2).
7. Fill the transfer case to the bottom of the fill hole with manual transmission and transfer case fluid. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.
8. Apply pipe sealant G/M P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) to the threads of the transfer case plug.
9. Install the transfer case fill plug.
   Tighten
   Tighten the transfer case fill plug to 25 Y (18 lb ft).
10. If the VIN is 56TDN13E778100102 or prior proceed to the next step, if not proceed to step 14.
11. Remove the speed sensor from the transfer case. Refer to Transfer Case Speed Sensor Replacement.
    
    Important: A hand pump, or equivalent, will be required to perform step 12.
    
12. Add 250 ml (8.45 oz) of manual transmission and transfer case fluid. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.Notice: Refer to Component Fastener Tightening Notice.
    
13. Install the speed sensor to the top of the transfer case and connect the electrical connector.
    Tighten
    Tighten the speed sensor to 17 Y (13 lb ft).
14. Lower the vehicle.

 

Weird question but can ya add the last 250ml thru the dip stick tube if ya go slowly? Just wondering?

 

no dipstick on the transfer case

 

That's kinda what started me wondering about the original question...how would you know you were low on transfer case fluid and not know where the fill plug was located?

 

Kind of, no dip stick BUT the breather vent hose is located on the firewall behind the tranny dip stick. Pull the vent cap off and I use a turkey baster to fill through the hose. I have done it several times and saves on oil dripping down your arm laying on your back. I replaced the hose since the old one was cracked and relocated it next to the dip stick for better access.

 

Well my yoke slider has a leak and I needed to fill it again.

 

But how would you know HOW low it was, and how much to add, unless you check out the level at the fill plug?

 

Oops sorry was thinking transmission not transfer case brain fart there. But learned where the breather tube is so yay. Lol.

 

You know your transfer needs refill when you see drops of oil coming out from your slider and your undercarriage is all soaked. I didn't know how much it needed but for sure the level was decreasing.

 

I know a few drops isn't bad, sounds like you had a little bit more that a few drops. Good thing you caught it before it went dry!