2001 Dodge Ram 1500 - Transfer Case Fluid Change
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.ย. 2024
- This video demonstrates the steps required to change the transfer case fluid in a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500.
The specific transfer case in this video is a 231D. It holds 2.6 pints of ATF+4 transmission fluid, and the recommended fluid change interval is 36,000 miles.
I am not a professional mechanic, and my videos are not intended to offer professional advice. Always reference your vehicle's service manual for official information, and please do not attempt any repair that you are not comfortable doing.
Thanks for watching!
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Thanks for the great instruction videos.. Gave me the courage to do all this myself instead of $100's at the dealer.
Coty Lake No problem Coty, I'm glad you found them helpful! How did your repair go?
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the video. Just did mine a few minutes ago. I was happy as a clam mine still had somewhat reddish tint to it lol. At least I know it was atf4 in it before.
Maybe you can help me out, Matt. I have the same transfer case. The previous owner high-centered on the drive shaft and cracked the part that connects the drive shaft to the transfer case. I need that part and have no idea what it's called, unless you recommend welding it.. Anyway, I appreciate that you laid out the tools and oil first. Definitely a time saver for learning how to fill a transfer case (that I'll be filling up a lot until I can get the part/weld it - pending your response). Thanks, your knew subscriber -John
Thanks for the video, it's great...very helpful.
You're welcome, Michael!
For the 1994-2002 (Generation II Ram trucks), the OEM Dodge Ram Truck Owner's Manual and Service Manuals BOTH specify using either GM's spec of: Dexron II, or Chrysler's spec of: ATF+ (aka: 7176) fluid in the TRANSFER CASE. (FYI.) You can also use Dexron III, Dexron IV (synthetic), ATF+3, or ATF+4 (synthetic) without any problems or worries. It's best not to mix any of them, but in the transfer case, it's not at all critical like it is in the automatic transmission. In the Dodge Ram pickup automatic transmissions, it's best to use ATF+4 only. (Former spec was +3.) As usual, people are being misinformed and you are stating the wrong information to people here on the internet. As always, it's best to READ your OWNER'S MANUAL or OEM Service Manuals, since word of mouth inevitably seems to alter the facts.
+Turbo Diesel I will have to disagree with you, as my factory service manual only lists ATF +4 as the recommended lubricant for the automatic transfer case - please see the link below:
www.brinkleys.org/users/tsl/Files/Dodge%20Ram%20Transfer%20Case%20Fluid%20Recommendation.png
I'm not sure how I am stating the wrong information to anyone, as the lubricant I state to use in the transfer case is exactly what the manufacturer recommends in the service manual, and will definitely not harm the transfer case. If other lubricants are listed as acceptable in the owner's manual, then so be it, and that may be where some of the confusion comes from. I don't have my owner's manual available at the moment because my truck is currently in the shop, so I can't verify what my owner's manual states. However, I have not instructed anyone to use a non-approved fluid, so I will have to disagree that I am providing wrong information. What IS wrong is the gear oil that I drained out of my transfer case that was put there by a previous mechanic who clearly did NOT read any manual.
+Matt Payne : Ok, it appears that we are both correct. I just looked it up, to be 100% sure... because I too, have factory manuals. Anyhow, this is straight out of a OEM Chrysler 1997 Dodge Ram BR 1500 - 3500 Service Manual, since that was what was handy to me while replying. I can assure you, a 2001 NP/NV transfer case is no different than a 1997 as far as what fluid can be used in it. Below is a pic of the page. My apologies for the pic being a bit large. Don't know how to "shrink-to-fit" it better on here.
Anyhow... my point is that you can use any ATF that I mentioned, Dexron II, III, or VI... as well as any Mopar ATF 7176, ATF+, ATF+3, or ATF+4 in your Transfer Case. Still best not to intermix the grades, but that's mostly because the benefits of the synthetic ATF grades (Dexron VI & ATF+4) would be nullified if mixed with the earlier conventional grade ATF's. Point is, for transfer cases, it makes no major difference which fluid that you use, as all are considered perfectly acceptable.
I run Dexron III in my transfer cases, for several reasons:
1.) It's typically the most reasonably priced ATF available on the market.
2.) It does the job just fine, and is a direct replacement for the former ATF Dexron II spec that it replaced.
3.) I change my transfer case fluid annually. Why? Because it's dirt cheap insurance and I work my trucks hard.
FWIW, the Chrysler Service Manual specifies only changing the transfer case fluid every 36,000 miles or 3 years.
Bottom line... run whatever ATF you want in your transfer case, so long as it's one of the aforementioned ATF's above, it won't matter. That said, with the much higher cost of ATF+4, I'm sticking with the more reasonably priced Dexron III.
Oh, and the irony is this... Whatever you do, DON'T mix these fluids or use them interchangeably in your Chrysler automatic transmission!!!! That's one place where using the correct fluid is imperative!
+Matt Payne : Damnit... the pic I added disappeared when I posted it. Any Idea why? Perhaps we aren't allowed to post pics in the text section here? I'm not a TH-cam guru.
1997 Chrysler 1500 - 3500 Series BR trucks
Anyhow, the OEM Service Manual says the following, word for word:
21-324 TRANSMISSION AND TRANSFER CASE ---------------------------------------------BR
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Recommended Lubricant and Fill Level
Recommended lubricant for the NV231HD and NV241LD transfer case models is Mopar Dextron II or ATF Plus. Use this fluid for topping off the level, refilling after service, or normal fluid changes.
Do not use anti-friction additives or similar products in the NV231HD or NV241LD transfer cases. Use recommended lubricant only.
Approximate lubricant refill capacities are 1.5 to 2 liters (3 to 3.6 pints) for the NV231HD and 2.7L (5.0 pints) for the NV241LD.
Correct fluid level for the transfer cases is to the bottom edge of the fill plug hole. Be sure that the vehicle is level when checking the fill level.
+Turbo Diesel It's clear where a lot of the "misinformation" we see about topics like this comes from, when the manufacturer's supplied specifications aren't even consistent! I have a theory on this particular case, but I have no data to support it....but your last paragraph made me think of it. As you stated, the automatic transmission will take ONLY ATF+4. I have read that it's possible for the seal between the transmission and transfer case to go bad and allow transfer case fluid to leak into the transmission, which is why the specified transfer case fluid is ATF+4 (at least according to everything I had ever read before your comments). I wonder if the earlier 2nd generation Ram manuals provided a broader range of approved fluid based solely on their compatibility with the transfer case, but due to some issues with failing seals, Chrysler changed the specs for the later model second generation Rams to ATF+4 only to avoid this issue. Again, I have no way of verifying that...but it was just a thought I had.
Thanks for the information you provided. It is curious that the manuals provide conflicting information. However, as I stated earlier, nowhere does it say gear oil is an approved transfer case lubricant, so I was pretty irritated when I saw that drain out of my transfer case!
+Turbo Diesel Not sure about the picture...the only way I know to post a picture is by providing a hyperlink. I'm not sure if you can embed it in a comment or not...I'm definitely not a TH-cam guru either. I really only know enough to upload my videos and comment.
Yeah that's gear fluid and thanks gotta do mine
Yea... that's not ATF... Weird.. Good thing you changed it.. Great video Matt...
Haha yeah definitely not what I expected to come out. I looked back at my records to see where it was changed - I won't say the name (rhymes with Liffy Jube) and they charged me $70 for the fluid change that they did simultaneously with an oil change. I think I paid about $10 total for the two quarts of ATF+4 this time.
I am kicking myself for taking so long to learn how to do some of my own maintenance....
It only took me one time when I was 16 getting ripped of. You are doing an excellent job for sure. I bought some rear and fron diff fluid because of your other video... made me worry its been so long.. I'm always scared of transmissions and transfer cases though. Every time I tough them they break. Great job!
Musher Deeds Yeah - looking back at my maintenance records, I realize in hindsight how much money I've spent on stuff I really could have done on my own for much cheaper. But, I really only felt comfortable learning once we had 3 vehicles. This 2001 Ram is was my main work vehicle until recently; now it's sort of my guinea pig for learning how to do stuff like this. If I can keep it running well, I'll keep using it as a work truck and will keep miles off my newer truck. Otherwise, I can afford to let it sit for a while since it's not my main means of transportation.
I hear you on not wanting to touch transmissions. Speaking of which...I'm afraid this one is on its last legs. I was driving it Friday and it started shifting late and not wanting to downshift properly. I'm thinking I'm going to let my transmission guy take a look and maybe it will just need a band adjustment, or maybe new governor pressure sensor & solenoid. If it's rebuild time....well then I may have to put it out to pasture, or at least let it sit for a while. I have too many other looming costs/projects right now to pay for.
***** Update on my transmission: the transmission mechanic couldn't find anything obviously wrong, so he suggested I keep driving it until (hopefully) a check engine code, or something more conspicuous, pops up. Well, I tried that for a day or two and couldn't stand it any more. It was so annoying to drive with the hesitation to shift and constant, frequent upshifts/downshifts that I had to do something. So, after doing a lot of online reading, and partially against my better judgment, I decided to purchase a few bottles of Auto-RX. I put two full bottles in the crankcase with a fresh oil change of Mobil Super 5000, and I put about 7-8 ounces of Auto-RX into the transmission fluid (all of these quantities are spelled out on the Auto-RX website if you are interested). The directions say to then drive for 1,000 miles and change the transmission filter and fluid, and also change the oil filter. Then, after another 1,000 miles, you change the oil and filter again and replace with only oil.
The idea is to remove sludge and contaminants from both the transmission and the crankcase. I was not expecting much, but I figured a few bottles of this stuff wasn't going to hurt (hopefully) since it is not a solvent-based product, and although it's not cheap, it's cheaper than a transmission rebuild. Well, 400 miles later and I have to say that I am AMAZED at how much better my transmission is shifting. It's not perfect, but it is so much smoother than before, and almost all of the hesitation to shift has been eliminated. Fingers crossed, in another 600 miles it will still be shifting great when I change the fluid and filter.
So, to anyone reading this - if you are having sluggish acceleration and shift hesitation, you may want to consider trying Auto-RX. Definitely read up about it and form your own opinion before trying it (there is no shortage of opinions, good and bad, all over the internet; try www.bobistheoilguy.com, for instance). It will not work miracles and will not magically restore broken internal transmission parts; however, if your issue is clogged shift solenoids and valve body, then this product may help you. It has definitely improved my vehicle's performance.
(Disclaimer: I have no ties to Auto-RX whatsoever. I just like to share positive results from products when I experience them.)
Remember people... if the transfer case fluid is black... change it. If not, leave it alone! I was told that a long time ago. Once transfer case fluid is changed drive the many miles it’s said in manual then change it. Same with transmission fluid. Once driven 4 or 5 thousand miles start checking the engine oil. If not black leave it... obviously. If have a little hint of brown... leave it. If black... change it. If it hasn’t been as much miles as usual to change engine oil and engine oil is black... you can possibly drive it a thousand more miles. Every 6 or 7 thousand miles I change my oil.
Thanks a bunch, Matt. I've done differentials before, but this is my first transfer case fluid change and I'm glad to see it is so easy. I cringed when you were showing that gear oil come out of there. Did you consider running it with the ATF fluid and then doing another ATF fluid change sooner rather than later to finish flushing out the gear oil?
underourrock No problem, thanks for watching! Yeah it was definitely a shock to see the gear oil drain out. I haven't really worried about it too much....but that's not a bad idea. I may change it again soon just to clear out any residual gear oil. I'm not sure if it really damages the transfer case though...my understanding was that the transmission fluid was specified simply because it would prevent contamination of the ATF in the transmission if the seal between the transfer case and transmission ever leaked. I would imagine that gear oil would lubricate the transfer case adequately...but then again, who knows how the viscosity of that gear oil compares to ATF+4. I'm just hoping it didn't destroy my transfer case. So far, no problems....that gear oil was in there for a long time, so I'm hoping that if nothing catastrophic has happened by now, then I'm OK.
Is your ram 1500 also a 5 speed?
Show me on a video where is the shifter linkage connected, auto trans , 4x4 2003 ram 1500. There arent many videos on the front side of transfer case
Man I know this video is old but I wish someone would show where the 4x4 linkage connects up. I'm looking everywhere but coming up with nothing
Keep looking it kinda on top of the t case!
damn someone put gear oil in there! fuuuuuuuck! What a twist.
Let me know if you find a good mechanic...Ive always had to check their work and constantly find they did it wrong or half ass
+Mcbeth2pl Haha, yeah....unfortunately I am finding that out the hard way, too. It's a shame, because I know there are plenty of good, honest mechanics out there. The bad ones just seem to give everyone a bad name, though. And, we all have bad days...I know I make plenty of mistakes at work. Sometimes it's hard to distinguish between a good mechanic having a bad day and a bad mechanic behaving normally.
Can you swap a 231 for a 241 d? It's a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9 unleaded does that matter or does it have to match? Can I take a transfer case off a Dodge Dakota? And can I use a transfer case from a diesel 2002 5.9 1500 on a regular gas truck? Anyone?
so i keep hearing about making sure that fill hole allen might be stuck anybody think itll be a good or bad idea to put anti sieze on it?
I don't think that's a bad idea at all, as long as you keep it to a light coating. You just don't want any anti-seize getting into the inside of the transfer case.
Thanks for watching!
Never used anti seize on one, but I always put thread sealer on the threads at install.
Should the truck be warmed up before doing this or should it be cold? Or does it make any difference?
Not for the transfer case. If you want to do a shogun job. Just do it twice. But on the 2nd fill use high quality fluid. ATF is trash for TCs. Your much better off using a thin full synthetic motor oil fluid like 0w16.. Im using 0w20 pup and 50% mmo.
My truck kind of bump slip at 70mph but is not the transmission, wonder if my transfer case any suggestions..
Def could be, or even rear end gears slipping if they’re worn really bad
Rico T it did couple times on the highway but I been driving and don’t dot it anymore, hope not my rear end is cheaper to get a transfercase
Hello Matt ,
How would you replace the transmission cooler with an aftermarket part? Thanks !!
chris Hey Chris, the transmission supply and return lines attach to the stock transmission cooler (which is mounted on the radiator) with some quick-disconnect fittings. You would need to remove these lines from the stock cooler and then reconnect to your aftermarket cooler, but depending on the new cooler's location, you may have to extend the lines. Are you having issues with your stock cooler?
why would they use a stupid hex -_- like I have to go out and spend $10 on this one specific hex ill never use again.
Its work on my 2000 Ram
invest in a small oil pump can if you can, one that empties quick just for this sake. Goes a long way
Yo thanks so much my truck went 136000 miles ooops 🙄
My transfer case fluid hadn’t been changed since ’95 🤣
agreed 99% mechanics get paid by commission and they are Crooks.
Probably tractor hydraulic fluid
i just bought my 1999 dodge ram 4x4 and someone told me to get the dex transmission fluid is there much of a difference?
Mar Lang Yeah, I do NOT think you want to put Dex fluid in a 46re transmission. You can download the service manual for your truck here:
spillage.net/Public/98%20Dodge%20Ram%20Truck%20SM.pdf
I would recommend always consulting that, or your owner's manual, before trusting what someone else told you. Better to double check than to ruin something with the wrong fluid!
***** Check out Section 21 of the manual, page 210. It says Dexron II fluid is NOT recommended, and its use can result in clutch pack chatter. It says Mopar ATF Plus 3 is the recommended fluid.
oh crap thank you so much!!! i only put a little in it but i wont put anymore. do u have a video on how to change the outer seal?
Mar Lang You're welcome! How much fluid did you add? If not much, it may not a big deal, but you may want to drain the pan and put in fresh fluid if you added more than a few ounces.
Which outer seal are you referring to? The transfer case? I don't have any videos about that, unfortunately, but you can find out how to service that in the service manual I linked above.
yes transfercase. and ok not much was added, i added dex 4 synthetic dex 3 is what i should of used, non synthetic . just like 2 squirts so not much but thank you for the link also
Hmm usually you would put gear oil in the transfer case like 80/90 weight
No way Jose. Even back in the 70s it was 10 W 30 weight motor oil in the transfer case is. Soon after the new design aluminum transfer cases always took ATF.. originally + 3 and now of course ATF + 4. Now thr newer heavy duty Ram transfer case take (recommend) Borg Warner transfer case oil. It's basically just very thick transmission fluid. You can put a few ounces of good 75w90 weight gear oil along with the ATF + 4 on these transfer cases if they are worn out or if severe use is expected.
MG42pillbox I respectfully disagree, there are gears in the transfer case obviously and manufacturers never intended for consumers to try and get 300k out of the vehicle therefore to cut corners and save money they used motor oil to lube gears which will work but 10w-30 will break down faster....gear oil is specifically designed to lube gears and because it's thicker it will take longer to break down....gear oil for gears!!!
+Rob Carrillo The service manual says ATF+4... are you familiar with these systems? I've heard about many Toyota, Ford, GM. transfer cases over filling because with transmission fluid because of s broken seal. I wonder if this is possible on the Dodge setup...
MG42pillbox yes I know those systems and If you look at the numbers the seal rarely breaks and the whole concept is to cut corners and lube a gear box with ATF lol....even if the seal busted and you get gear oil in the tranny it will be ok cause it's a lubricant which is will only be beneficial....the only problem would be leaks from a busted seal...you never heard someone go to a shop with no leaks sayin that there tranny blew cause it was over lubricated with gear oil
+Rob Carrillo hmmmmm. No kidding.. yea I dunno. you might be right.
That gear oil was clear....diddnt need to be changed