transfer case leak??

[steelynorm]

So I was looking to purchase a 97 4runner today, the transfer case is covered in a film of old oil, not much info I know.

It did not seem to be localized to the front or rear outdrives it was kind of all over. the sides, near the top.

Did not seem to be spraying oil all over the underside of the truck either.
kind of localized around the transfer case.

It was not from the driveshaft grease, it was like old oil residue?

Thoughts of what the problem is, also how much for a fix?

Norm

 

[steelynorm]

bump

bump

 

[pluton]

Did you wipe the oil stain with a paper towel or your finger and then smell it to try to tell what kind of oil or grease it is?

 

[TheDurk]

It's probably coming out the top by the shift lever. Pull the console, boot, then unscrew the rubber boot and look in from the top if you end up buying. This is not uncommon. Probably a cheap fix if that is where it is.

 

[4x4mike]

Another cheap fix is the output seals. Seals and new nut won't run you too much and are easy to install. If you can narrow it down to the output seals or from the shift point you're pretty safe and can use it as leverage on the price.

This was my front output seal. It would drip about a drop of gear oil if I let it sit for more than 24 hours. The dripping was coming from right behind where the front driveshaft bolted to the yoke. If it is this let me know and I'll pst up part numbers.