Chasing leaks in NP231 transfer case

[98TxTJ]

I hate leaks. The transfer case is driving me nuts. First I had to replace the rear output yoke and seal. Then the speedo gear o-ring. Today the front output yoke and seal. After a test drive, it is clear that the seal around the shift-linkage is also leaking.

I found a thread on here that assures it can be replaced without opening the case. Per RockAuto, this is National part number is the right seal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009B45UVU/?tag=wranglerorg-20

Anyone know differently?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

What lube is inside?

 

[98TxTJ]

What lube is inside?

ATF+4

 

[Jerry Bransford]

ATF+4

That's the right stuff, just hoping it was maybe something that was harsh on seals that was causing all the leaks.

 

[98TxTJ]

That's the right stuff, just hoping it was maybe something that was harsh on seals that was causing all the leaks.

Thanks, Jerry.

I think 200k miles and a PO who was a hack is coming into play.

 

[98TxTJ]

UPDATE: Replaced the selector shaft seal today. It fixed that leak.

Here's a how-to:

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/replace-the-np231-range-selector-shaft-seal.31021/
Still have a small leak. I suspect the O-ring on the shifter detent column. If it's not that, I may have a crack or a leak at the bottom where the cases halve meet.

 

[98TxTJ]

Also, after spending all that time under there, I saw how bent and twisted was the shift linkage — probably done when the PO had the 6" Rough Country lift installed. (Since replaced with a 3.5" Rock Krawler.)

I've got a Savvy cable linkage on the way.