Transfer case leak
04-01-2018, 09:04 PM
#1
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Apr 2018
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee(SJ)
Transfer case leak
I have recently noticed a transfer case leak on my 99. Leaving about a 2” dia puddle overnight. Im about 500 miles from home and was wondering if anyone had any input on if monitoring the level and keeping it topped off over my 500 mi highway drive home until I can examine further is an acceptable option or if there is anything that is typically prone to blowing out and losing all the fluid/ burning something up? I won’t be putting it in 4wd and will be all interstate driving. Thanks!
04-01-2018, 09:21 PM
#2
Banned
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Chicago(ish)
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Year: 2000
What t case do you have?
If it's a 242 there is a rubber plug in front of the shift linkage(driver side) that likes to fall out.
Not sure if the plug exists on a 231.
I tapped that hole 1/8-27 and put a socket head plug in it.
Checking that is easy. The plug is approx. 3/8" in diameter.
Best luck!
If it's a 242 there is a rubber plug in front of the shift linkage(driver side) that likes to fall out.
Not sure if the plug exists on a 231.
I tapped that hole 1/8-27 and put a socket head plug in it.
Checking that is easy. The plug is approx. 3/8" in diameter.
Best luck!
04-01-2018, 10:03 PM
#4
Banned
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Chicago(ish)
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Year: 2000
Op don't know where it's leaking from. It sounds like he's on the road.
Hopefully it is leaking out that plug, mine did the same thing. It looked to me like it was coming out the front output in my paticular scenario, low and behold...long story.
Could be trans fluid too.
Hopefully it is leaking out that plug, mine did the same thing. It looked to me like it was coming out the front output in my paticular scenario, low and behold...long story.
Could be trans fluid too.
04-01-2018, 10:20 PM
#6
CF Veteran
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: Groton, MA
Posts: 3,695
Received 234 Likes
on
207 Posts
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: I6 4.0L
I'd hate to advise that he's good to go and then have him blow out the x-fer on the ride - but I feel like if you're paying attention to it - and it's only a little drip, you probably can go 500 miles without a major failure.
However, since the x-fer case uses auto tranny fluid, and the tranny is also right there, could it be an auto tranny line or auto tranny leak? Seems plausible. I'm a strictly manual Jeep guy, so I have no idea what might look like a transfer case leak but really be a tranny leak and if so what the risks are.
If it's a cooling line leak and causes the tranny fluid to run too hot - that sounds like a big risk.
However, since the x-fer case uses auto tranny fluid, and the tranny is also right there, could it be an auto tranny line or auto tranny leak? Seems plausible. I'm a strictly manual Jeep guy, so I have no idea what might look like a transfer case leak but really be a tranny leak and if so what the risks are.
If it's a cooling line leak and causes the tranny fluid to run too hot - that sounds like a big risk.
Trending Topics
04-01-2018, 10:49 PM
#8
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Apr 2018
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee(SJ)
Thanks for the input guys, the missing plug seems plausible as the “drip” appears to be on the linkage (it is a 242). Fortunately I have a few days before I need to get on the road and have the basic tool set with me. Just not crazy about climbing under in the parking lot of a Super 8.....but whatcha gonna do?? I may post again after some further investigation.
04-01-2018, 11:06 PM
#9
CF Veteran
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: Groton, MA
Posts: 3,695
Received 234 Likes
on
207 Posts
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: I6 4.0L
So pull it into the Motel 6 parking lot across the street. 
In all seriousness, it is what it is - hopefully it's just the plug and you can grab something at the hardware store to get you home.
As someone who has had to change a radiator and water pump on the side of the highway - do what you need to do and get home safely.
In all seriousness, it is what it is - hopefully it's just the plug and you can grab something at the hardware store to get you home.
As someone who has had to change a radiator and water pump on the side of the highway - do what you need to do and get home safely.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
chadrenner69
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
6
02-28-2010 06:03 PM
98CherokeeLimit4x4
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
1
11-04-2009 11:20 PM
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)