I replaced the transfer case fluid on my JX35. Other than the filler plug located in a weird / horrible place, it went well.

The transfer filler and drain plug had a gray goo sealer on the threads. Anyone know what the gray sealer is?

BTW, differential fluid replacement is super easy and red thread lock is used to seal the bolts.

Good work! You sure it isn't just 'debris' (for lack of a better word) from the transfer case that accumulated on the bolt? Like metal shavings or what not?

It definitely wasn't junk from the transfer case. Reminded me of pipe putty.

BTW, has anyone changed their transfer fluid in the past? The case actually has two filler holes, one with a 11mm bolt (slightly above the drain) and another "plug" that accepts the 4-sided 3/8 ratchet higher up (and even harder to get to.)

I originally added gear oil to the 11mm bolt (took ~11oz) then went back and added more via the 3/8 plug (took another 15oz - ~25oz total). Anyone know why the case has a lower fill bolt?

And PLEASE tell me I didn't add gear oil to the wrong fill hole.

I'm having a tough time visualizing the underside of the vehicle right now but on my M56x, the lower is the drain and the upper is the fill. Not sure why there would be 2 fills...

I agree, it's a pain. Here is a pic I pulled from JX35 transfer cases on ebay.

http://img4.imagetitan.com/img.php?imag ... ercase.png

That's odd indeed, can't say I've ever seen that.

If somebody was doing it smart , could be anti-seize . I use anti-seize on the threads , on the shoulder of the
'plug' , in liberal amounts .
Makes very easy to remove next time , and also actually prevents leaks ( tork it right ), as it ages in time.

https://www.permatex.com/products/threa ... d-sealant/

Not necessary, but I see a lot of shops use it just for security.

AZhitman wrote: ↑

Fri Aug 14, 2020 10:29 pm

https://www.permatex.com/products/threa ... d-sealant/

Not necessary, but I see a lot of shops use it just for security.

Permatex 56521 is white, but probably grayed over time.

Must be it. Thanks AZhitman

It is pipe sealant. The plugs are supposed to be 1x use, but most people will re-use them without any issues.

oh... Good to know. Looks like I have some plugs to buy in 30k miles.

Hopefully 4+ years given no travel work life..