ATF fluid/transfer case question

[liquify33]

Is the fluid circulated through the transfer case? This is the manual shifter which uses ATF, FYI.

Reason I ask is after using 4H my fluid was really low and the transmission was shifting poorly. Hard 1-2 and Converter lock up issues.
After filling back up and driving nicely it’s at about 98% normal.

Would engaging 4WD cause a fluid transfer? Is the transfer case sealed in that regard?

I was considering the ShiftRite valve body kit w/Sonnax goodies or the kit on eBay with all the gaskets and TransGo upgrades for valve body. Possibly Corvette Servo but that’s unrelated (I think).

We’re on a road trip so I won’t have the truck until the weekend.

TIA for the group’s wisdom.

 

[exp500]

Trans/ transfer case seperate but connected. Trans seal leak usually kills transmission (automatic). Have to drop t-case.

 

[liquify33]

Trans/ transfer case seperate but connected. Trans seal leak usually kills transmission (automatic). Have to drop t-case.

I have no external leaks. Would I see anything?

 

[exp500]

No, but if trans losing fluid then T-case overfull.

 

[liquify33]

No, but if trans losing fluid then T-case overfull.

So if I pop open the fill hole, the transfer case should overflow, IF it’s leaking at the seal?

 

[OR VietVet]

Eventually if you keep adding fluid and the seal is leaking that isolates the two, you will be over filled on one or the other or both. May never show signs of external leakage except maybe at vent valve.

 

[liquify33]

Eventually if you keep adding fluid and the seal is leaking that isolates the two, you will be over filled on one or the other or both. May never show signs of external leakage except maybe at vent valve.

Is that seal replaceable without dropping the transmission?

 

[OR VietVet]

Yes. Mark and drop the shafts off the transfer case attaching areas and tape over the caps so they don't fly and needle bearing fly as well. Lots of electrical connections to unplug CAREFULLY and mark with colored tape or whatever if needed. Unbolt from trans and pull back a little and let drain into a pan. Separate and replace seal after thorough cleaning. Plenty of you tube videos in needed. Separate fluid for case than trans if I remember right. I know my 02 is.

 

[liquify33]

Yes. Mark and drop the shafts off the transfer case attaching areas and tape over the caps so they don't fly and needle bearing fly as well. Lots of electrical connections to unplug CAREFULLY and mark with colored tape or whatever if needed. Unbolt from trans and pull back a little and let drain into a pan. Separate and replace seal after thorough cleaning. Plenty of you tube videos in needed. Separate fluid for case than trans if I remember right. I know my 02 is.

Mine’s the manual shift that uses ATF vs the push button. I don’t think that makes a difference physically just fluid-wise.

 

[OR VietVet]

Don't forget to support the transfer case and the trans separately.