misc. advice needed

[nwcatman]

got a 2003 4x4 hd w/the 6 speed.



1. the tailstock(?) seal started leaking about a year so was replaced now leaking atf again. they had a hell of a time getting the new one one they said. this normal? fix?



2. i changed all the fluids in it at 50,000 miles. now has 175,000 and i need to do it again. any new/better stuff since then?



thanks

 

[Prairie Dog]

Have you checked for play in the tail shaft?

 

[nwcatman]

no but when i take it back to the mechanics i will tell em to.

 

[Slow Six]

Are you talking about the rear output shaft on the transfer case? I thought it was the seal but it was actually a leak from the yoke. There is a pressed in cap in the yoke that will leak. I fixed it by taking the drive shaft off, thoroughly cleaning the inside of the yoke and sealing the end cap with a quality RTV silicone. When it was clean I could actually see the opening around the cap. I changed the seal about 3 times before I read about the fix on this site.

 

[nwcatman]

i was told it was the seal on the rear output shaft of the transfer case. it is slinging ATF all over the underside, and was low a pint when last checked.

 

[BDaugherty]

If you need a new tail shaft assembly for the Tcase, it can be had for a reasonable price from the online wholesale division of Dallas Dodge 214-319-1237.
Yours may have a different problem, but there is a busing inside the tail shaft that keeps the yoke straight. If it gets worn, a new seal doesn't stand a chance. Often, it's easier to just change the whole tail shaft assembly. This would also be an ideal time to look at the Ujoints in the rear shaft.

As for the lubes, no major changes that I know of. Just use quality fluid of the correct specification. I used synthetic 75-90 in the rear end, regular 80-90 in the front axle, Pensoil syncromesh in the trans, Napa trans fluid in the Tcase, and Proteck 15W40 in the engine. Everyone may not agree with me, but I think it's better to change your fluids at the specified intervals with almost (there are a few I won't use) any oil meeting the specification than to swap in the best and most expensive oil out there and then not want to ever change it because it costs so much.

 

[jhenderson]

Be sure to check the plug in the yoke. Some leak around the edge and some through a pin hole in the plug.

 

[nwcatman]

thanks guys. gonna print all this out and take it w/the truck when i take it in again. royal purple is out as the favorite if it ever was?