transmission fluid leaking into transfer case problem???
04-20-2011, 09:02 PM
#1
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transmission fluid leaking into transfer case problem???
I have heard that Ford has a problem with transmission fluid gradually leaking into the 4x4 transfer case, overfilling the transfer case and lowering the transmission fluid level. The fluid won't flow back into the transmission because the seal between it and the transfer case will let the fluid leak in only one direction. If so, apparently Ford is keeping it hush hush, unless people ask about it specifically at the dealership. Is this true? Has anyone had this problem? My powertrain warranty is expiring in the near future, and I don't want to face a major problem after it's expired.
04-30-2011, 07:37 PM
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Sure enough, folks, my brother's '06 just got fixed. His transmission fluid was a bit low, and the transfer case level was higher than the fill hole. He paid his $50 deductible, and it's fixed. The dealer that repaired it said that about 10% of these trucks will experience this problem. So guys, check your fluid levels regularly in both the transmission and the transfer case. That's the only way you can tell, if you don't see any oil leaks on the outside. You could be saving yourself a big headache.
04-30-2011, 08:34 PM
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Had mine fixed a few weeks ago. These typically seep very slowly so it's not always an easy catch or a quick diagnosis when you suspect it.
Ford Master Mechanic at my shop had a clever way to confirm the diagnosis for vehicles that have been topped off and had xs transfer case fluid drained already.
He elevated the only the front end on the lift and started it up. Gravity + pressure filled the transfer case much more rapidly than typical driving would.
Ford Master Mechanic at my shop had a clever way to confirm the diagnosis for vehicles that have been topped off and had xs transfer case fluid drained already.
He elevated the only the front end on the lift and started it up. Gravity + pressure filled the transfer case much more rapidly than typical driving would.
04-30-2011, 09:51 PM
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Originally Posted by jhight
Had mine fixed a few weeks ago. These typically seep very slowly so it's not always an easy catch or a quick diagnosis when you suspect it.
Ford Master Mechanic at my shop had a clever way to confirm the diagnosis for vehicles that have been topped off and had xs transfer case fluid drained already.
He elevated the only the front end on the lift and started it up. Gravity + pressure filled the transfer case much more rapidly than typical driving would.
Ford Master Mechanic at my shop had a clever way to confirm the diagnosis for vehicles that have been topped off and had xs transfer case fluid drained already.
He elevated the only the front end on the lift and started it up. Gravity + pressure filled the transfer case much more rapidly than typical driving would.
05-01-2011, 11:09 PM
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Originally Posted by northern pointer
Sure enough, folks, my brother's '06 just got fixed. His transmission fluid was a bit low, and the transfer case level was higher than the fill hole. He paid his $50 deductible, and it's fixed. The dealer that repaired it said that about 10% of these trucks will experience this problem. So guys, check your fluid levels regularly in both the transmission and the transfer case. That's the only way you can tell, if you don't see any oil leaks on the outside. You could be saving yourself a big headache.
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05-18-2011, 08:36 PM
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Mine is an '08. My brother first told me about this, and suggested I keep an eye on my truck. So I guess he was saying it's over the '04-'08 range. Checked mine today, and transmission is a bit low, and when I removed the plug on the transfer case a wee bit drained out. I'll have to check with him if that's enough to get it looked at.
11-07-2011, 08:35 PM
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Figured this out today too. I have been noticing my truck was shifting badly and feeling like it was cutting out. I incorrectly pulled the filler plug for the transfer case (mis read the manual) and it gushed fluid. I checked the tranny and it was down a lot, I had to put in about a quart and a half. A mechanic friend said I need to replace the seal between the tranny and transfer case. Also, the fluid will need to be changed because it looks really dark. Anyhow, I am pretty pissed about this because my truck has 68,000 and I think the power train warranty expires at 5 years or 60k. Anyhow, I think I need to change the seal like you guys did. I am so mad about this...Ford needs to stand tall no this.