New Transfer Case?

[patrickfinley]

The Toyota Dealership told me today I need to get a new Transfer Case which new runs about $2900.00 parts and labor. History: 2004 100 series with 115k miles. 90k service, t-belt and all maintenance done.

Here is the issue:
When I step on the gas I hear a whirring/whining sound, as soon as I let go of the gas the whirring sound stops and I hear a faint friction or rubbing sound. Sounds similar to brakes that are getting low and rubbing, but the brakes are fine I had them checked.

Does this sound like it's a T-Case issue? The dealership also says it could be a transmission issue but I'd need to fix the T-Case first. They said there is both noise from the transmission and T-case. Sounds like a potential money pit and I'd like to hear some other opinions.

Thanks!

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

What does the dealership say is wrong with the t-case?
Does it make noise when put in net while moving?
Second opinion at a minimum.

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Have you checked the transmission and t-case fluid levels? Have you put the t-case in neutral and the transmission in drive to see if it still makes the noise?

If you've been around here any length of time you'd know there's not a lot of t-case replacement threads - none I can think of in fact. Just really not something that has issues.

 

[flintknapper]

I believe I'd take it to a good transmission shop instead of the Toyota dealer. Sounds like the dealer is a 'replace the whole thing' type of outfit.

They are basically telling you: "We aren't really sure what it is, so lets replace the entire T-Case and if that isn't it, then we'll look at the transmission"!

You could hire anyone off the street to do that (throw parts at it).

 

[patrickfinley]

Here is audio and video in 4Lo, I opened the door while driving slowly 10-15mph to better hear the underside of the vehicle.


When in N and I step on the gas there is no grinding sound, only when engaged in 4Hi, 4Lo.

Trunk Monkey, I agree, it does sound like an odd problem. The FSM states that Oil levels for the Transfer Case could result in 2 of the 3 reasons it's making noise. Do you think this sounds like a T-Case or Transmission issue? There are no leaking fluids.

Agreed Flintknapper - I'm going to have to find a local dependable shop, anyone in South Florida have anyone?

Transfer Case Symptom Suspect Area See page
Noise:
6. Oil (Level low)
7. Oil (Wrong)
8. Transfer faulty

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Check your e-brake bellcranks and see if they're frozen. You may be dragging the e-brake pads.

 

[spressomon]

Is the noise different when the t-case is locked and unlocked? Have you drained the t-case lube to inspect? Ditto for the ATF?

The HF2A t-case is a relatively simple yet robust transfer case design. If, when its on a rack, a stethoscope doesn't help pin point the noise, the t-case is relatively easy to pull...take it to a LC specialty shop (not sure where that might be in Florida...) and open it up.

 

[patrickfinley]

Thanks for the advice, as always a wealth of knowledge on here. It's so valuable having the knowledge from the best minds on anything LC related right at your fingertips.

I'll find a local shop and have them change and inspect the T-Case oil and ATF and move on from there (e-brakes and so on).

I had a thread going a while back about reliable LC work in South Florida, I'll have to revive it.

 

[flintknapper]

Both the T-case and Tranny have magnetic drain plugs, if anything really bad is going on...you'll see evidence of it there.

As you know, the T-case uses gear lube, the transmission...tranny fluid. Transfercase is generally pretty bulletproof. The condition of the transmission fluid will tell the shop a LOT.

Anyway, a good transmission shop will have some idea of what is going on. While it might entail opening up one (or both) units for inspection, at least you'll know they will repair only what is necessary and will advise you beforehand.

As for the T-case, IF it requires extensive work (I'd be surprised)...then a good used unit from a salvage yard (low mileage) would be an easy fix and much less expensive. Your transmission (if it needed much) would need to be professionally refurbished.