Long term results of transfer case leak?

[drallan]

It appears that I am the victim of the transfer case actuator leak in my 04 v8 sr5. I just bought it used and there were no signs of leak during my inspection. However during my test drive I put it in 2lo and locked the diff, things the previous owner hadn't done in 6 years of ownership. The other day I noticed small drops of what smells like gear lube under the truck. Closer inspection revealed a bunch of gear lube on the black box that sticks out of the back of the transfer case (pics to come).

I really don't have $1500 to shell out right now, and judging by the size of the drops, it's not something I can just keep an eye on and top off once a month.

My question is for those who have done the White Shepard (or similar product) solution how long did it last? I'd like to buy myself 6months. Even if it means I screw up my output shaft seal or easier/cheaper seals that I can replace.

For those who "tightened up" the bolts, which bolts did you specifically tighten?
Has anyone tried putting some rtv on the outside of the actuator? I can get by without using 4lo or locking the diff. It's my wife's DD and the awd works plenty good for snowy roads. I only locked the diff and put her in lo for the test drive.

Anyone have feedback on longevity of cheaper solutions?

Thanks

 

[BlackWorksInc]

They're gonna be band-aid fixes really...

Some last weeks, others months, and some don't last. It'll be hard to RTV it unless you just dry/clean it perfectly and then slather a ton on like you don't give a crap (it probably won't set right so not worth it in my opinion.)

Tightening the bolts that secure the actuator won't help too much unless they are actually loose.

Additives may or may not help stem the leak (which at this point is better than nothing.)

 

[awdjunkies]

Good question here is, how are your wrenching skills? Because if you are a DIY type of guy and have another vehicle to use in the mean time here's a great Write up: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/182074-fixing-transfer-case-shift-motor-leak-within.html

 

[Munch74]

Same issue

What did you ever end up doing? I’m in the same position right now and begrudgingly considering BlueDevil stop leak. Thanks