so after my durango gets fixed from the wreck id like to overhaul the transfer case. like basic stuff. change the fluid and such. i need to know what to do and such. any suggestions on stuff to do while im doin that... should i change the fluid in the front differencial as well at the same time? any suggestions would be greatly appreciated...

 

only real maintance on the t-case is fluid change, ATF +4 only

front and rear differentials should be changed with the appropriate weight of gear oil (check your manual) and friciton modifier in the rear if you have LSD

 

Don't use ATF+4 in a 1998, stocker or equivalent replacement fluids only. 2000 is the transition year based on build date; some yes, some no. Same for the Powersteering unless adding all new equipment.

IndyD

 

Indy, what should i use in a 98 for the transfercase? i know the tranny takes atf+4

 

No ATF+4 in the 98 actually. ATF+4 for "everything" is internet rumor gone amuck. One can't just rely on what you read on the interwebs.

Directly from the FSM:

"Mopar ATF Plus 3, Type 7176 automatic transmission fluid is the recommended fluid for Chrysler automatic transmissions.
Dexron II fluid IS NOT recommended. Clutch chatter can result from the use of improper fluid."

+4 has different properties. In most old, high mileage applications like a '98 would be, just switching to +4 now results in the seals leaking. Usually all of them. Also, the mechanic will always need to know it is +4 becasue the wear poperties are different too (color, smell, etc usually used to diagnose "bad" fluid which are no longer applicable with ATF+4.)

IndyDurango

 

i thought ATF +3 was no longer produced and that ATF +3 trucks should switch to +4 . . .

 

Not produced from Chrysler, yes. All shops have equilv aftermarket +3 and will for decades.

As for "should switch"... def not. Well, not unless you want to adhere to Chrysler's nudge and end up buying a new vehicle in the long run.

Cause and Effect.

IndyD

 

i didnt know that,

thanks for the info indy,

 

as far as i knew atf+4 was a replacement for what was normally used because the normal fluid wasn't being manufactured anymore. i haven't seen atf+3 anywhere

 

The Noob at the local Advance Auto Parts tried to tell me that Dodge recommends GEAR OIL in the transfer case! Guess i should have told him to a little closer.....

So you say that us '98ers should be using ATF+3? Where do they sell it anymore?? i have not seen it... im curious cause i plan to do a full fluid change sometime before fall..