If one owns a vehicle with AWD or 4WD, it features a transfer case. The transfer cases are built to be sturdy; however, these parts can fail over time. It might be time for replacement for those who have examined their vehicles and found out that the transfer case is malfunctioning. A replacement transfer case comes in handy to get one’s vehicle up and running. This article will provide valuable tips involved in the replacement of transfer cases.
Finding a Transfer Case
Before a car owner can start the process of replacing their transfer case, they need to secure a new transfer case. One should get a brand new transfer case as opposed to aftermarket ones since they offer value for money. Furthermore, brand new transfer cases last long and come with years of warranty. On the contrary, aftermarket transfer cases may come with faulty parts which may not last long, and the manufacturers rarely provide a warrant. Quality transfer cases can be bought at reputable shops such as The Gear Shop 1945.
Tools Necessary for the Replacement of Transfer Cases
There are a number of tools that one must have to install a replacement transfer case successfully. These tools also depend on the GM model of a vehicle. However, a general list of tools might come in handy during this exercise. These include box end wrenches, socket sets, transmission jacks, jack stands, floor jacks, and work lights. One should also put on personal protective gear during the replacement process. Such clothing includes closed-toe shoes, latex gloves, and safety glasses.
Replacing the Transfer Case Overview
The replacement of a transfer case will differ depending on the vehicle model. Therefore, to be on the safe side, one needs to find a comprehensive tutorial that is specific to one’s vehicle model. This article can provide a guideline of how to conduct a transfer case replacement, though. This can come in handy in giving people an idea if this is an exercise they’d be willing to do at home. Below is the process involved.
Lifting the Vehicle
The first step involves lifting the vehicle and propping it up using jack stands. This ensures the car is at a sufficient height above the ground to provide enough working space. Additionally, this ensures the vehicle is strapped still to avoid any movement that may cause harm to the handler or a general accident. Therefore, securing the vehicle prior to starting the process of replacing its transfer case is essential.
Disconnecting the Transfer Case
Disconnecting the transfer case from the vehicle follows after the car has been lifted and jacked. Several components must be disconnected from the faulty transfer case. These parts include the transmission adapter, transfer case support member, vent hose, shift lever linkage, speedometer cable, wiring harness, and rear and front driveshafts. These components are delicate and need expertise when being disconnected. Going through a vehicle’s tutorial is a great way to familiarize yourself with the disconnection process before carrying it out. This will avoid damaging different components linked to or surrounding the transfer case. Any additional repair might be expensive and uncalled for.
Lowering the Transfer Case
Lowering the transfer case follows after all components have been disconnected from it. A final check has to be done to ensure no other component is connected to it to avoid any damage. Lowering the transfer case is done using a jack. A jack keeps it steady when lowered to prevent it from dropping down. If it were to drop suddenly, it could cause injury to the person performing the exercise or damage other components of the vehicle.
Installing the New Transfer Case
Once the malfunctioned transfer case has been successfully detached, it’s time to install the new one. The brand new transfer case is installed in the reverse order of how the faulty one was removed. This process involves lifting the transfer case into place with jacks. Then, all the detached components are attached carefully not to forget anything.
Conclusion
The process of replacement of transfer cases is critical. It requires expertise to avoid damaging other parts of a vehicle. Replacing a faulty transfer case with a brand-new one is recommended to ensure value for money. One can conduct the replacement process successfully with the right tools and tutorials.