Transfer case leak

So my transfer case has been leaking slowly for a long time. And it hasn't really been a problem until I noticed today it's getting much worse. I know it's a very expensive fix. My transmission is starting to slip as well. I've got the v8 with 269,000 miles. Is it worth fixing the leak only to have to replace the transmission eventually. I feel like giving up on it I don't have the money to deal with this for real and i dont like stop leak stuff its just a band-aid. So I'm just kinda lost right now. Any advice would be helpful

 

Lack of funds and not having the knowledge or time to fix it yourself would dictate selling the vehicle I think. It's a shame as I bet it's otherwise a great vehicle for you but you have to look at it logically and make a decision.

The transfer case itself could run $600-1000, depending on where you go and what needs done. The transmission could be as simple as a fluid and strainer (not a filter!) change or it might need a complete rebuild or replacement.

Also, there is no stop-leak that would fix the transfer case issue regardless.

 

I already did a fluid change and filter a few months ago. I didn't make it better but I tried... I love my car I would try to fix it my self but I only have the 1 car...

 

Do you think I could just change the actuator seals myself with out going to the shop there like 13 bucks online

 

Can you take apart the transfer case after removing it from the vehicle and then reseal and reassemble it while getting the timing correct so that 4WD still works?

I can't. I replaced the electric shift case with a manual shift case from a FJCruiser. But that's not easy either and requires, cutting, welding disassembling the interior and replacing both driveshafts.

 

Going through your build thread on the tacoma forum and I got to hand it to you. You've done a good job at documenting the entire build, especially the FJ swap! When the time comes I will definitely be using your step by step process in order to do my swap. From what I gather (still going through your build) all I would need is FJ (read 5th gens work?) T-Case from an auto vehicle and the FJ drive shafts or spacers, reweld the shifter, cut the floor and run a few wires to the 4wd box under the glove?

 

Thanks.

Basically, yes. transfer case can come from any of the automatic FJ Cruisers or 5th gen 4runner with the manually shifted transfer case. The transfer case from the manual FJ Cruisers will not work at all as it has a different bolt pattern and input shaft size. Drive shafts need to be either custom made (shortened rear, lengthened front but I might have that backwards too) or I think you can use the FJC driveshafts with spacers. I went the custom length route so can't say for sure on the FJC driveshafts. Wiring is simple to do. I cut the hole in the trans tunnel a little too big, you can for sure go smaller.

 

If you can overhaul a transfer case, then yes.

 

A few years ago I dropped my t-case, opened it up and fixed the leak. It was pretty simple and straight forward but I should've gone this route instead. I read about ppl doing the swap but just never really read into it. Will def keep this on my list when it does occur again.

 

Others have done it. Mine leaks, too. I bought the seal(s?) and FPG a few yrs ago but still haven't done it. What's weird is that it seems like the leak stopped. Or maybe it drained out. Nothing exploded on my 1,000 mile drive to Oregon so I doubt it did drain out. Anyways, it involves dropping the t-case, cracking it open....w-a-y more than my wrenching ability. I've downloaded a write-up and tried to talk one of the mechanics I use to do it, got a hard no from him.

 

If you can do a timing belt, you’re more than capable of doing the o-ring fix. Just be careful when you split the t-case to stand it upright.

Mechanics will 99% of the time always tell you it’s not worth the work. They rather just replace the entire t-case. Less work for them. I’ve asked mine and he says the same.