Having trouble removing transfer case shifter bolts

[BendJeepin']

Looking for some help. My linkage is shot so I bought the Novak replacement. I have everything off but the two damn bolts on the transfer case. I tried box end wrenches, box end wrenches, 1/4 inch drive sockets (but I have 0 leverage). I'm half inclined to take a grinder to the bracket and make some room. Does anyone have any advice or a tool recommendation? Maybe heat?

 

[Chris]

I got mine off very easily with a box end wrench.

Have you tried soaking them in Kroil or Liquid Wrench (not P.B. Blaster)?

I assume you've removed the transfer case skid to gain access? If so, lower the transmission / transfer case slightly with a hydraulic jack. You should be able to drop it down far enough to where you'll have more room to get to those bolts.

 

[ac_]

I got mine off with wobbly sockets and long extensions. I had to use chrome wobbly sockets though as they are thinner than the impact wobbly sockets.

Btw I just did the same thing as you except I went with the Savvy cable. Also if you are trying to do it with the crossmember on, take it off. I didn't have to pull the front driveline, but I heard from others that it makes it easier too.

 

[BendJeepin']

I have the transfer case skid off. Nope on the Kroil oil or Liquid Wrench. I'll go pick some up and give it a go. I think I have plenty of room with the driveline on. If I get super frustrated I'll take that off too haha. Been a long week. Probably should have tackled this tomorrow. Thanks for the fast reply!

 

[Goatman]

I try to spray any hardware I will need to remove several days before I put a wrench on it. 3-4 days at least once a day. Preferably several times a day. I'm up in the heavy road salt usage in NY. Some of you who live in places like AZ have no idea how much easier you have it. Without prespray I am almost guaranteed broken bolts and parts.

 

[BendJeepin']

Well, 3 day of liquid wrench and no dice. Heated them up and beat on them. Boom! Success. I guess I should start with heat first. One nut came off, but it was a bear, the top bolt on the transfer case came out. Should I replace that one or both? Fair amount of rust.

 

[JMT]

Well, 3 day of liquid wrench and no dice. Heated them up and beat on them. Boom! Success. I guess I should start with heat first. One nut came off, but it was a bear, the top bolt on the transfer case came out. Should I replace that one or both? Fair amount of rust.

Replace and move forward. If you want add some anti seize, but only torque them down to 75% of the factory torque specs since the anti seize functions as a lubricant.

Specs here
https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/jeep-wrangler-tj-torque-specs-1997-2006.16906/

 

[Sj's TJ]

I just clamped down on the nuts with vice grips. All 4 of mine were rust/welded and this is the only that worked. Did this solo.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Goatman]

I've had a lot better luck with Kroil then with Liquid Wrench. I always try L.W. first 'cause it's cheaper, but for a stubborn nut that still wont loosen up a squirt of Kroil and a minute later it will frequently spin free. But heat is normally the most efficient of you can get a torch on it.