Recommendation for a Transfer Case Remanufacturer

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bsamole

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The transfer case in my 1999 4x4 Tahoe sounds like a rock crusher when in 4 Hi. I want to replace the 246GM (NP246) with a remanufactured case. During my research I discovered quite a few T-Cases are remanufactured in South Carolina. Any recommendation and experience will be appreciated.
 

rockola1971

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I personally rebuild my own. Theres not much to them and really the only "uncommon" tools needed that not everyone has is internal/external snap ring pliars and bearing/seal pull/install tool set. Parts are not expensive. There are tons of youtube videos that show step by step. Or you can just goto ebay to find a rebuilder that sells them by using search term "np246 transfer case". Looks like they run around $700.
 
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bsamole

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I've looked at the YouTube videos on rebuilding a transfer case and I agree it doesn't look that complicated. I have a necessary tools however I will not know if the TC was rebuilt correctly until I reinstall it. I do not want to do the R&R twice.
 

rockola1971

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I've looked at the YouTube videos on rebuilding a transfer case and I agree it doesn't look that complicated. I have a necessary tools however I will not know if the TC was rebuilt correctly until I reinstall it. I do not want to do the R&R twice.
There truly is nothing much to them. They arent even remotely as complicated as a transmission. The videos on youtube are more than enough for the beginner. Hell they dont even have seals that have to be sized like a transmission does. Seriously if you can do a complete overhaul brake job you can do a transfer case. Check your fluid level...i bet its low and I bet you have a pinhole on the rear half of the case passenger side.
 

George B

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I would totally do it. I replaced the case half on my last one with a part from rock auto and installed the pump guard plate. It was easy as pie. Taking the case out was harder but I didn’t even have to take out the cross member or support the trans.
 
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bsamole

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Okay guys, I'll give it a shot. Hopefully the lead time on getting replacement parts will be short.
 

rockola1971

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Okay guys, I'll give it a shot. Hopefully the lead time on getting replacement parts will be short.
All of the parts can be had on ebay and rockauto in less than a week. If I were you I would expect to have to replace the rear half of the case and install pump rub plate to fix the known GM issue with these cases. Will need a seal and bearing kit, new chain and clutch set if you have auto 4wd option. Get snap ring pliars that have a long reach. Dont forget fluid and soak clutches in the fluid if you have the auto4wd option for a couple hours before install. You will need a torx bit set to take case apart. Inspect hard parts for damage and replace as neccessary. Any questions, just post up here and we will get you straight.

Your case probably either has a bad bearing (low on fluid because of pump rub hole) or stretched chain smacking inside of case which will eventually chew a whole through the case.
 
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bsamole

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Thanks for a list of parts needed and probable sources. I will post the results.
 

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