in my 2001 dodge 1500 4x4 it has 180k now, and I think my transfer case is gonna go anytime now, the drain plugs are leaking oil slowly and within the past week I have this vibrating rattling noise coming from under my truck expecially in the morning and really in reverse and I dont know if thats related to the transfer case, but when im driving down the road the 4x4 on the floor feels like it has more play in it than it should and move when it shifts...if anyone else knows anything about these cases let me know please, thanks

 

I seem to remember something about the chain wearing the inside of the case, and eventually wearing a hole thru it, or some such.......

Check the fluid level, if its low, add some. If it looks ugly, drain it, and refill it. check all linkages/bushings/pivot points for wear/slop.

See if you can isolate where the noise if coming from. Is the noise worse in four wheel drive? How do your u-joints look?

 

broken snap ring on the output shaft is a common problem and no personal experience, but said to be and easy fix.

there is only about a quart of oil in that thing, so if its leaking, you may be in trouble.
drain and change your fluid. 10mm hex nut. use ATF+4, see you much fluid was in there. use sealer on the drain and fill plug when you reinstall. liquid teflon is good but rtv will also work.

if all else fails.
http://www.transfercases.com/

 

Here is the fix for the snap ring http://www.drivetrain.com/parts_cata...ase_saver.html