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Crack in trans case

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Old Apr 3, 2018 | 05:08 PM
  #1  
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Crack in trans case

that cone shape part of the t case where the drive shaft enters has a small hairline crack in it.
not sure what the t case is made out of , cast something.
thought it was the pinion seal at end of t case leaking but isn't the source of leak.
if you lay under truck and look up at it the crack is right in front of you so easy to get at if it is possible to repair with t case still in truck and fluid in it ??
Any thoughts on what the repair should be, ground out a bit and welded ?
Some super duper epoxy ?
Be cool if it could stay in as its a bit of work to get out.
Not a bunch of fluid leaking but enough that its on the ground.

88 f 150 302 fi 5 speed
 
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Old Apr 3, 2018 | 06:22 PM
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The main body halves of the transfer case are magnesium alloy, but I don't know about the tail extension housing. I would think it is magnesium as well or aluminum. Either can be welded but the welder will need to know what they are doing.

I would think you could remove the tail housing without dropping or further dissembling the transfer case but I do not know that. I think it would be best to remove it then repair or replace from there even if you need to drop the case.
 
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Old Apr 3, 2018 | 07:38 PM
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Get a replacement from a junkyard, the tailshaft shouldn't cost more than $25. An entire transfer case usually runs $100-150, and you can swap one out in an hour. Two hours max if you take your time and drink a 6 pack while you are doing it.
 
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Old Apr 3, 2018 | 11:23 PM
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Yes for sure, I will replace tailshaft . I think it's best way. Although no visible marks it must have taken a thump at some point.
wish I could salvage my $30 seal I just put in 2 weeks ago.is what it is.
tx for responses.
What do you guys like to use as a sealant for something like this. I'm unfamiliar with what silicone to use ?
 
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Old Apr 4, 2018 | 06:04 PM
  #5  
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Swapped that part out and not too much trouble.
Another question for the gurus please.
I put a pennzoil dex/merc atf fluid in both my standard trans and transfer case.
Im under the impression that because it said Mercon on the jug then that was the one to use.
ive taken fluid out to let sealant on T case to dry overnight.
i want to add fluid back tommorro but is this the right product ?
again 88 with 5 speed 302 4x4
 
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Old Apr 5, 2018 | 01:27 AM
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Yeah, any mercon atf should be fine.
 
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Old Apr 5, 2018 | 08:25 AM
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Originally Posted by Broncor
....wish I could salvage my $30 seal I just put in 2 weeks ago.is what it is.
$30? They are less than $10 plus shipping on Rock Auto. Working on vehicles requires looking around for better prices or you will go broke.

Glad you got it fixed.
 
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Old Apr 5, 2018 | 08:46 AM
  #8  
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[QUOTE=My4Fordtrucks;17907020]


$30? They are less than $10 plus shipping on Rock Auto. Working on vehicles requires looking around for better prices or you will go broke.

Glad you got it fixed.
iknow thought it was a bit much, rock auto for me involves getting it shipped.
locally here if you want right away is Napa or Auto Value.
i managed to salvage the new seal with not much trouble at all.Used a flange sealant to be sure.
Btw that Mercon ATF fluid is kinda thin I thought. I wanted to make sure I wasn't off track not using a nice gear oil.
 
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Old Apr 5, 2018 | 11:24 AM
  #9  
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Borg Warner 1356 takes Dex/Merc, no gear oil.
 
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Old Apr 6, 2018 | 09:30 AM
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Actually D-III as in MD-III
or Mercon/Dexron III

Mercon V can be used as a Mercon replacement in transmissions according to Ford.
Probably on t-cases too, but not 100% certain.

Check your t-case drain plug area for cracks too. Often, the drain plug, which is a tapered thread, is over tightened.
This can potentially split the magnesium surrounding the drain plug boss of the t-case.
 
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Old Apr 6, 2018 | 09:08 PM
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Originally Posted by McLeod
Actually D-III as in MD-III
or Mercon/Dexron III

Mercon V can be used as a Mercon replacement in transmissions according to Ford.
Probably on t-cases too, but not 100% certain.

Check your t-case drain plug area for cracks too. Often, the drain plug, which is a tapered thread, is over tightened.
This can potentially split the magnesium surrounding the drain plug boss of the t-case.
thanks, I looked around pretty good this am and all seems dry
i think torque specs were 7 lbs on that drain plug, I did not know they were tapered, good to know tx.
looks like the Mercon is good for my t case.
i think my year took a 80 w oil in trans,
with all the vehicles a family has its tough to keep up with all the different fluids required.
 
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Old Apr 6, 2018 | 09:28 PM
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Originally Posted by McLeod
Actually D-III as in MD-III
or Mercon/Dexron III

Mercon V can be used as a Mercon replacement in transmissions according to Ford.
Probably on t-cases too, but not 100% certain.

Check your t-case drain plug area for cracks too. Often, the drain plug, which is a tapered thread, is over tightened.
This can potentially split the magnesium surrounding the drain plug boss of the t-case.
My case is split from someone overtightening the drain plug. It's not a big split and it isn't leaking yet. I'm keeping an eye on it for now, but planning on replacing it sooner or later.
 
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Old Apr 6, 2018 | 10:39 PM
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Yep.
Mine is too.
It was me who did it too, several years ago.
Not leaking, but the potential exists.
 
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Old Apr 6, 2018 | 10:45 PM
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jbweld.ive fixed them before like that. works pretty good.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2018 | 08:13 AM
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I've broken many a tail housing from violent 4 wheeling, and finally decided to get a fixed output case from an oj bronco. Not a cost effective replacement for most people, as it requires driveshaft mods, but a solid go to for anyone who is breaking them for reasons other than daily driving.
 
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