How to Check and Refill a Transfer Case in a Toyota Tacoma
The fluid in the transfer case of a Toyota Tacoma should be changed approximately every 30,000 miles; however, it should also be checked whenever the engine oil is changed. Proper lubrication in the transfer case ensures the four-wheel drive works properly. The transfer case is bolted to the back end of the transmission under the truck.
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Things You'll Need
- Jack and jack stands, or tire ramps
- Socket wrench
- 24mm socket
- Drain pan
- Hand pump for oil
- 1.1 quarts of 75W-90 gear oil
Instructions
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1
Elevate the Toyota Tacoma with a jack or tire ramps if you're unable to crawl underneath it. Make sure the truck is secure on jack stands, if using a jack, before working under it.
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2
Locate the transfer case "fill" plug, on the back side of the transfer case directly under the drive shaft. Remove the fill plug with a 24mm socket wrench.
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3
Check if the fluid is below the bottom of the fill hole. If it is, you will need to add more fluid.
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4
Drain the fluid, instead of refilling it, if it's been more than 30,000 miles since it was last changed. Place a drain pan under the transfer case "drain" plug before removing the plug. The drain plug is below and to the left of the fill plug.
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5
Remove the drain plug in the same manner as the fill plug with the socket wrench and let the fluid drain into the drain pan. Replace the drain plug after the fluid has drained or slowed to a trickle. Tighten the Toyota Tacoma's drain plug with 25 foot pounds of torque.
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6
Use a hand pump to refill the transfer case through the fill opening with approximately 1.1 quarst of 75W-90 gear oil. The transfer case is full when the oil spills out of the fill hole. Replace the fill plug and tighten with 25 foot pounds of torque.
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Tips & Warnings
Remove the fill plug before removing the drain plug. If the fill plug is stuck, the transfer case will still have its lubricant.
Dispose of transfer case fluid at the same place you would dispose of regular engine oil.
Transfer case fluid is lighter than engine oil, and therefore, flows quicker. Be ready for it to gush out when you remove the drain plug.
