for a 96 blazer what would be the best way to drop the transfer case? would i drop it then remove all the plugs or remove the plugs then drope it?

 

Its 6 to one, half a dozen to the other. The fluid will add weight and slightly to the awkwardness of the transfer case, but it already is quite awkward and the fluid doesn't make up that much of the over all weight. Either way will work and if you are already planning on replacing the fluid, might as well drain it before you move on to taking the thing out.