I just noticed that the oil pan gasket is leaking near the front of the pan. To remove the pan do you need to remove the transfer case and front axle? Or is there an easier way to remove it to replace it?

 

You don't need to remove the transfer case. If you have the stamped steel pan, you can remove the front axle and get the pan off that way. If you have the aluminum pan, then the book calls for the engine to be removed because the pan has to be flush with the back of the engine block for proper installation.

 

I think it is the steel one but I am not curtain. Any easy way to tell which one I have. I guess if i took a magnet and see if it sticks that would tell me.

EDIT:
I tested the magnet theory and its definitely the aluminum pan. Seeing how its a small leak in the gasket, i have put some lucas in it to see if that will seal the leak. Only time will tell now. If it doesn't resolve the leak, I will just have to keep an eye on the oil level during the winter. After which I may pull the engine in the spring or summer.