2000 Cadillac Escalade Transfercase Questions

[autoworx]

i recently purchaced a 2000 escalade and when i was test driving it I did notice some play in the drivetrain, i just assumed it was the trans mount or a u joint. I did get a very good deal on it so i wasnt too worried.

 

While i was driving it i had to take off quickly and i noticed a loud metallic clunk in the center of the truck. i quickly took it home hoping nothing would fall off or something. i later realized the sound was from the transfercase. i grabbed both of the driveshafts and i could almost simulate the noise just from shaking them. it seems like the bearings have gone bad...

 

is there anything else i should be concerned with? How difficult is it to replace the bearings? Do i need to take the transfercase out? i read that if the incorrect fluid is in the case that can cause play due to the clutches for the awd option. any help would be great.

 

and i have no idea what happened with the posts sorry about that. I had hit the tab button and thats what it did.