O.k. so I'm driving my 1999 Blazer 4x4 and it sounds like the 4x4 wants to engage. From about 20 mph thru 50 mph I can hear a Hard *Clunk* intermittently. I looked looked under the car to see if I could see anything out of the ordinary and found the Transfer Case Drain Plug missing. Don't know how long its been like that. I don't 4x4 at all so how much damage could this cause? Can I completely dis-engage the system?

 

This can cause a TON of damage as bearings would run dry. The full extent of the damage depends on the 4wd system you have... NV233 == 3-button switch on the dash, NV236 == 4-button switch on dash with auto4wd. If you have the NV236 and it was out for any appreciable amount of time, you likely trashed the clutches which means you will be looking for a used NV236 to swap in due to the cost of rebuilding the one you have.

Best case scenario, you get another plug and refill the TC. Everything works and you do not have any problems. Here is to hoping you get lucky!

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I have the NV233. I'm thinking of scouring the Junk, um, Recycling Yards for another transfer case. Is it hard to R&R? Can you give me a synopsis?

I'm pretty handy and my dad's a TV repairman, he has an Awesome Set of Tools. (80s Reference)

 

That's funny, you should put that in your signature. Spicoli from Fast Times at Ridgemont High?

You should be able to get one for $200 used on the internet. If you are going to pull it yourself look for a significant discount from that.

 

Look on car-part.com and you should be able to find one in your area for less than $200.

 

I've got a line on a used one for $300 with free shipping. Just gotta check if its the right model. How had is it to Remove and Replace? Looked at a thread in the Drivetrain and it seems to be a PITA.

 

It isn't too bad a job depending on you but...did you fill it? Buy a plug?[X(] And is all ok? If so-why would you spend $300.......Jerry[&o]

 

It is just awkward. Not really difficult.

JP, I already said that above. It will not hurt to know the options, but I would not go replacing anything without getting another plug and filling it back up.

 

Hey Kyle-I realize you said that above but it sounded like he(arolon) already wrote his old one up as being 'dead' and I don't know if he did what you said. Jerry

 

Throw the dirt in on top of it and THEN Check for a pulse... or is itCheck for a pulse and then the Dirt..?

I get so confused with these things