What fluid do I put in my transfer case?
The fluid you need to put in your transfer case depends on the specific make and model of your vehicle. Generally, you should use the transfer case fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. This fluid helps lubricate the gears and bearings in the transfer case, which is responsible for distributing power to the front and rear axles in four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles.
Identifying the Correct Transfer Case Fluid
To determine the right fluid for your transfer case, you'll need to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or contact the manufacturer. The transfer case fluid is typically a specialized lubricant, and using the wrong type can damage the components. Common transfer case fluids include:
- Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF): Many transfer cases require a specific type of ATF, such as Dexron or Mercon. Check your owner's manual for the recommended ATF type.
- Manual Transmission Fluid: Some transfer cases use a manual transmission fluid, which is thicker and has different additive packages than ATF.
- Gear Oil: Some transfer cases use a gear oil, which is thicker and more viscous than ATF or manual transmission fluid.
It's important to use the exact fluid type specified by your vehicle's manufacturer, as using the wrong fluid can lead to premature wear, leaks, and even complete transfer case failure.
Changing the Transfer Case Fluid
In addition to using the correct fluid, it's also important to change the transfer case fluid at the intervals recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. This helps ensure the fluid remains clean and effective, preventing damage to the transfer case components. The process for changing the transfer case fluid typically involves:
- Locating the drain plug on the transfer case and draining the old fluid
- Replacing the drain plug and refilling the transfer case with the recommended new fluid
- Checking the fluid level and topping it off as needed
If you're unsure about the fluid change process or have any other questions, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or your vehicle's owner's manual for guidance.
Can I use transmission fluid in a transfer case?
Transfer case is not picky at all. You can run any ATF, you can also run motor oil or a light gear oil. It really just needs lubrication and ATF is a lightweight one that does the job. No need to be concerned about what brand.
How much gear oil do you put in a transfer case?
We need 1.5 quarts of gear oil. We went with AMSOIL severe gear SAE 75 90 synthetic extreme pressure lubricant formulated for severe duty applications.
What type of fluid goes in a transfer case?
automatic transmission fluid
Most transfer cases are filled with an automatic transmission fluid, which is usually red in colour. Others use a thicker gear oil, and some use a specialized fluid that is specifically made just for that transfer case.
What happens if you run out of transfer case fluid?
You may be able to drive a short distance because of residual fluid in the case, but continued attempts to drive will damage the transmission, whether it is a manual or automatic transmission.
What happens if you don't change transfer case fluid?
Why is Changing Transfer Case Fluid So Important? Over time, the transfer case fluid deteriorates. Heat and mechanical wear take their toll, diminishing the fluid's effectiveness. This leads to increased friction among components, overheating, and accelerated wear and tear.
Can I use 80W90 instead of 85W90?
If your vehicle is regularly exposed to very cold temperatures, we recommend 80W90 transmission oil, otherwise 85W90 can also be filled in. The performance parameters of the oils of both SAE classes are identical in many respects.
Can you use 80w-90 in a transfer case?
Yes you can. 75w-90 is usually a synthetic or semisynthetic. 80-90 hardly ever is in the stores. I run 75w-140 in the rear and 75w-90 everywhere else.
Does transfer case fluid matter?
Regular transfer case fluid changes can help to ensure that the transfer case is operating properly and can extend its lifespan.
How do you fill a fluid transfer case?
And clean any spills with a rag disposing of used oil and fluids incorrectly can pollute land water and infrastructure. So it's essential that you dispose or recycle. Used oil correctly.
How do I add fluid to my transfer case?
Completely into the Pan Once the oil has drained clean the drain plug with a rag replace it and talk to factory specs neon's easy squeeze packaging makes refilling an absolute Breeze check your
