03' Transfercase \ Actcuator Leak
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kai920
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I was looking at purchasing a 2005 a while back and noticed a leak from the actuator. I took it to the stealership to have it diagnosed before i bought it. The said it was an o-ring between the actuator and the t-case. Quoted me about $900 also. Why It had to be taken apart is beyond me. I asked and
eace: the explanation was not clear. I didn't buy anyways.
eace: the explanation was not clear. I didn't buy anyways.OK, so I may have found a new way to screw up the old "leaking actuator";
Found mine leaking from the actuator shaft as it enters the transfer case - just like everyone else. Had the seal confirmed as integral and therefore very expensive, just like everyone else. Decided to do a complete fluid change on the vehicle as it's new to me soooo.....
While I had the transfer case drained and empty I put a bead of orange RTV around the base of the shaft where the leak was. I also decided to snug down the attachment bolts...just in case. As I was tightening the top one, I heard a very distinct and disconcerting pop...maybe it was a snap, not sure...but it made me stop the tightening process immediately (I wasn't even wrenching on it hard I swear!!) I moved to the lower bolt, started tightening it conservatively and....pop! Don't know what the heck is in there but it didn't sound right. Oh well, nothing to do about it now so let's fill the case back up.
Guess what?? Now, my actuator shaft is dry as a bone - no leaks from where I put the RTV but now fluid is leaking from both attachment bolts! WTF did I break?? Anyone??
Found mine leaking from the actuator shaft as it enters the transfer case - just like everyone else. Had the seal confirmed as integral and therefore very expensive, just like everyone else. Decided to do a complete fluid change on the vehicle as it's new to me soooo.....
While I had the transfer case drained and empty I put a bead of orange RTV around the base of the shaft where the leak was. I also decided to snug down the attachment bolts...just in case. As I was tightening the top one, I heard a very distinct and disconcerting pop...maybe it was a snap, not sure...but it made me stop the tightening process immediately (I wasn't even wrenching on it hard I swear!!) I moved to the lower bolt, started tightening it conservatively and....pop! Don't know what the heck is in there but it didn't sound right. Oh well, nothing to do about it now so let's fill the case back up.
Guess what?? Now, my actuator shaft is dry as a bone - no leaks from where I put the RTV but now fluid is leaking from both attachment bolts! WTF did I break?? Anyone??
May have same problem but can someone confirm??
Hi everyone, I believe I may have the same problem. I am pretty mechanically inclined but since issues with the transfer case aren't every day regular maintenance problems I'm not completely familiar with it. I assume the black housing with the electrical connection mounted on the vehicle rear side of the transfer case is the actuator you guys are referring to? If so, mine appears to be leaking between the linkage point where it is mounted as well.
I maintain my vehicles meticulously and have never had a problem with my 4Runner since I've had it. It's an '04 V8 4WD (full-time) with 115k miles. I just bought a new Tundra and have only driven the 4Runner 2-3 times since the first week of December. When I backed it out today I noticed a few drops of fluid on the garage floor and crawled underneath to inspect. I am absolutely certain this is new since I have a habit of checking the garage floor regularly for fluids after owning two jeeps.
I attached pics, can you guys confirm and if this is indeed my problem offer any advice on repair?? I'm handy with the wrenches and not afraid to go after it myself if I'm reasonably certain it can be done without special tools or procedures that require the 'experts'. For what it's worth as well, the ole gal is up for sale after I get this repair finished if anyone is interested and is near South Carolina. I hate to part but the wife won't allow two trucks in the driveway, and probably rightly so. Other than this issue she is in fantastic shape, if you have any interest just reply or send a message and I can send plenty more info.
Thanks in advance for your help!!
Hi everyone, I believe I may have the same problem. I am pretty mechanically inclined but since issues with the transfer case aren't every day regular maintenance problems I'm not completely familiar with it. I assume the black housing with the electrical connection mounted on the vehicle rear side of the transfer case is the actuator you guys are referring to? If so, mine appears to be leaking between the linkage point where it is mounted as well.
I maintain my vehicles meticulously and have never had a problem with my 4Runner since I've had it. It's an '04 V8 4WD (full-time) with 115k miles. I just bought a new Tundra and have only driven the 4Runner 2-3 times since the first week of December. When I backed it out today I noticed a few drops of fluid on the garage floor and crawled underneath to inspect. I am absolutely certain this is new since I have a habit of checking the garage floor regularly for fluids after owning two jeeps.
I attached pics, can you guys confirm and if this is indeed my problem offer any advice on repair?? I'm handy with the wrenches and not afraid to go after it myself if I'm reasonably certain it can be done without special tools or procedures that require the 'experts'. For what it's worth as well, the ole gal is up for sale after I get this repair finished if anyone is interested and is near South Carolina. I hate to part but the wife won't allow two trucks in the driveway, and probably rightly so. Other than this issue she is in fantastic shape, if you have any interest just reply or send a message and I can send plenty more info.
Thanks in advance for your help!!
