I've goy a '96 4x4 with a 318. I want to change the fluid in the transfer case (NP 231D), but I don't see the fill and drain plugs on the back like the Chilton's manual shows. What gives? And what fluid goes in it?

 

look for recessed 10mm hex head. drain at the bottom, fill near half way.

DONT use a 3/8" its likely to strip it.
if you don't have a 10mm hex wrench, use a 10mm bolt head. or is it 8? anyway its metric - don't strip it.

ATF+4 auto transmission fluid is recommended.


its 10mm = .3937
3/8= .375 (a perfect strip out opportunity) don't ask me how i know that....

 

get a 10mm allen socket for a 3/8" drive ratchet, much easier then using a regular allen wrench.

dhvaughan, i guess i got lucky the first 3 times i changed mine, i used a 3/8" until my sister told me that hers was a 10mm and i had to investigate on mine. its snug, but it is definitely 10mm.

 

mine was torqued in like it was holding the world together and i rounded it out with a 3/8 and a ratchet. i've got just enough nub left for a 10mm to grab it.

tip - put a little rtv or teflon on the threads and don't over torque it. its just a plug, not an axle nut.

 

If it's like my 95, it won't be an allen plug. The drain and fill plugs on mine are a normal hex head but the head is quite large and shallow.
Gord.