Importance of diff/transfer case fluid change before winter trip?

[dbsoundman]

Just wondering if it's really important that I change my differential and transfer case fluid before my drive from Colorado to Ohio and back, with a trailer on the way there. I don't know if its been done before on this vehicle, but at my last oil change the fluids were at a good level.

I'm only asking because time is ticking, and I don't know if I really have time to get it done this weekend. We leave next Thursday. If I have to make time, so be it, but I also wanted to weigh the risk of changing it and opening the possibility for leaks or low fluid, versus just waiting until after the trip.

Thoughts?

 

[shootmymime]

yup i am doing mine as well. ive got 1300 miles trip with a 5X10 uhaul loaded in jan. here is the link i am going to follow for the change.
4Runners.org - Changing Your Front, Rear, Tranny & Transfer Case Fluids

sorry no pic.