How Much Fluid Does a Suburban Transfer Case Hold?

The four-wheel drive 2001 Suburban came standard with the New Venture 263 transfer case. This component inputs transmission power and outputs it to the front and rear axles. Chain-driven gears inside the transfer case synchronize the speed of the front wheels with the speed of the rear wheels in four-wheel drive mode. It also contains two extra low-range gears for improved traction in off-road conditions or when towing heavy loads. Two wheel or four wheel operation is user-selectable and shifting is electronic.

Fluid Capacity

Fluid capacity of the 2001 Suburban transfer case is two quarts. General Motors recommends checking the level of transfer case fluid every 12 months or when the engine oil is changed. Fluid level can be checked by removing the fill plug on the side of the case.

Changing Transfer Case Fluid

The transfer gear case fluid should be changed every 50,000 miles. Remove the fill plug, then the drain plug, and allow all the fluid to drain. Replace the drain plug and use a fluid pump to add the specified capacity of fluid to the transfer case. Replace the fill plug.

Recommended Fluid

General Motors Autotrak II Transfer Case Fluid is specified for the 2001 Suburban 4X4. No substitutes are recommended by the manufacturer. This fluid is distinguished by its bright blue color and is available only at GM dealerships.

References

• Chilton SUV Repair Manual 1998-2002; Chilton, Inc; 2003
• 2001 Chevrolet Suburban Owner's Manual PDF; GM Extended Warranty Site