Thread: Transfer case oil leak

Originally Posted by eeyore

Based on where the leaking oil is, another possible source seems to be the round inspection? plate, the one held on by a series of bolts at the rear of the TC, to the left and above the output shaft. Can I simply unbolt this round plate and reseal it with gasket sealant?

Yes.

I've heard that they can leak from the top housing too but the rear plate is a lot easier to tackle first.

Clean the thing off with degreaser, then check for the leak a week later. I'd look for it leaking on the intermediate shaft, front or rear. The telltale is a weep from the stake nut on the rear face of the main case of the box, about half way up.

Let's talk about the fixes when you locate and isolate.

HTH

Pete

Originally Posted by eeyore

I'm trying to track down a leak from the rear of my transfer case. I've replaced the crush washer on the drain plug, used a little gasket sealant on the drain + filler plug threads, and removed and resealed the (square) inspection plate. Still leaking. Someone suggested it's the rear output oil seal so I've just pulled the flange off in anticipation of replacing the seal and bearing. However there's no oil on the lip outside the seal (or on the felt washer, flange, inner handbrake drum, shaft splines, etc) or any play in the output shaft.

Should I assume that this isn't the source of the leak then? And if it isn't, should I leave it well alone and just reassemble it? (ie if it ain't broke..)

Based on where the leaking oil is, another possible source seems to be the round inspection? plate, the one held on by a series of bolts at the rear of the TC, to the left and above the output shaft. Can I simply unbolt this round plate and reseal it with gasket sealant?

Are there any other common sources of leaks around this area?

All advice welcome

I thought that they were indicating that it still has oil in it.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll have another go at degreasing the TC and see if I can narrow the source down a bit. From a quick wipe down it's now looking like either the (round) plate-to-casing seal or what looks like a join in the casing about 1cm back from this (?)

And Gavo, the special Land Rover 'yep, it's still got oil in it' garage floor indicator mark is one thing, but the sulphurous whiff of gear oil burning off the exhaust is adding amunition to my partner's financially-based claim that it really is a vehicle from hell