Need Help with Transfer Case PLease

[Gerald]

I have a 2004 Suburban 1500 (63k miles), Stabilitrak with 4wd lo. It started making a rough high pitched whine or slight grinding noise from the front end-- especially noticeable during slowing down, just before coming to a stop.

 

I looked in the manual. I want to check the transfer case fluid level. In the book, it talks about the front axle fliud and the transfer case fluid. (this is where I will insert the disclaimer that I am not smart at all about this stuff; of course it is about to be very obvious) Since I have a four wheel drive -- with one button that basically puts it into all wheel drive with Stabilitrak and then a 4 Lo button-- does that mean that really I only have to check the transfer case fluid and not the front axle fluid also. I found a drain hole and fill hole facing the driver side of the truck. When I open the Fill plug, I don't see any fluid at all. I have not removed the drain plug yet.

 

I want to open the drain plug, drain whats left in it and then refill it. But I want to make sure that I am actually draining what I think I am-- the transfer case.

 

questions:

 

1. What Fluid should I fill it with-- a. Dexron- III ATF or b. Autotrak II fluid (for some reason, after reading the manual I am not sure and I am feeling very inferior now)

 

 

2. What would cause this level to be so low.( I understand it is supposed to be up to the level of the fill hole) Is this normal to get so low? And is it likely the cause of the noise?

 

 

I really need to fix it. In a perfect world, I'd just take it in somewhere. But right now, I need to do it myself.

 

 

Thank you very much,

 

Gerald

[Ranger]

Your transfer case may have that annoying little hole in the top. It's becoming a pretty common problem. Are there any leaks on the driveway, and can you see the top of the t-case? Your mileage seems about right for it to become a problem.

 

But no, changing the front axle fluid isn't completely necessary but it won't hurt as you're already draining fluids and it's gotta be changed pretty soon anyways.

[Jacqson]

questions:

 

1. What Fluid should I fill it with-- a. Dexron- III ATF or b. Autotrak II fluid (for some reason, after reading the manual I am not sure and I am feeling very inferior now)

 

 

You would use Autotrac fluid for the Transfer case and a GL-5 80W-90 for the front differential.