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Dodge Ram 1994-2001: How to Replace Transfer Case Fluid

Engine oil, transmission fluid, and radiator coolant are all maintenance services we remember to get done; it's easy to overlook the transfer case fluid. So if you haven't done so yet, follow the steps below to replace the fluid in your Dodge Ram's transfer case.

By Keith MacDonald - July 7, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 2nd Generation 4WD (1994-2001).

Many 4WD Dodge Ram owners neglect to change out their truck's transfer case fluid. And if you own a 2nd generation Ram truck but have yet to replace the transfer case fluid, chances are it's long overdue. Dodge recommends that you change the fluid at least every 35,000 miles as its proper maintenance interval. Additionally, if you notice a leak around the transfer case, you hear the gears making noises, shifting into gear becomes difficult, and/or your truck randomly shifts out of gear, replace the fluid as soon as possible. If there is no damage to the transfer case already, replacing the fluid will surely prevent any near problems.

Materials Needed

  • 10mm Hex socket bit and ratchet
  • Oil drain pan
  • 3 quarts of ATF+4 trans fluid
  • Small plastic funnel
  • Spray bottle
  • Breaker bar or short steel pipe (if necessary)

Step 1 – Remove the upper Hex bolt

  • Park your car on flat, level ground and engage the parking brake. Lifting your truck is not necessary.
  • Place an oil drain pan underneath the transfer case to catch the old fluid.
  • Slide under the truck and look to the rear face of the transfer case. There are two Hex bolts located diagonal to one another.
  • Use a ratchet with 10mm Hex socket bit to remove the upper Hex bolt. If the bolt won't budge, use a breaker bar or attach a short steel pipe to the ratchet for some extra leverage.
Figure 1. Remove the upper Hex bolt first.

Step 2 – Drain the transfer case fluid

  • Use the same 10mm Hex socket bit to remove the lower Hex bolt.
  • Allow the transfer case fluid to drain into the catch pan.
  • Figure 2. Remove upper Hex bolt to drain the fluid.
  • Figure 3. Let the fluid drain to a complete stop.

Pro Tip

The transfer case in a Dodge Ram holds 2.6 quarts of ATF+4 fluid. You can pour a few ounces of fluid into a spray bottle and spritz the interior of the transfer case to flush it of remaining dirt and debris.

Step 3 – Pour in new transfer case fluid

  • Hand-tighten the lower Hex bolt.
  • Then tighten the bolt another 1/2 to 3/4 turn using the Hex socket bit and ratchet. Be careful not to over-torque the bolts.
  • Use a small funnel to fill the transfer case with ATF+4 fluid, and stop when the fluid starts to overflow.
  • Re-install the upper Hex bolt, and tighten it as you did with the lower Hex bolt.
  • Drive your truck in 4WD for a short amount of time to circulate the new transfer case fluid.
Figure 4. Use a small funnel to pour in new transfer case fluid.

Note

ATF fluid is used in case the seal between the transfer case and the transmission gets damaged. Using the same fluid prevents a potentially harmful mixture from damaging either component.

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