How to Check and Refill a Transfer Case in a Chevy Silverado

by TJ Hinton

Chevrolet used a number of different transfer case models on their 2014 Silverado four-wheel-drive trucks, but the fluid replacement procedure for all models is the same. The factory advises that you use caution when installing and tightening not only the drain and fill plugs on the case, but also the fasteners that mount the transfer case shield. Ensure that the plugs and fasteners go back into their original holes, and use only the factory-authorized thread sealant. Mixing the fasteners or using non-approved locking or sealing compounds can lead to fastener damage and failure.

Step 1

Pick a level concrete surface to do your work. Chock the front wheels. Using a floor jack beneath the rear differential, lift the rear of the truck and support it on jack stands at the support points on the rear axle, just on either side of the differential.

Step 2

Lift the front of the truck, one side at a time, placing the floor jack beneath the lower control arms, and support it on jack stands at the forward support points on the frame, to the rear of the front wheel wells. Ensure that the truck is level.

Step 3

Remove the four transfer case shield fasteners with a ratchet and socket, if applicable, and lay the shield aside. Position the drain pan under the transfer case. Wipe any road grime or dirt from around the plugs with a shop rag. Using a ratchet and socket, remove the transfer case fill -- upper -- plug first, and then the drain plug. This is in case you can't get the fill plug out. Give the fluid time to drain completely from the transfer case.

Step 4

Inspect the fluid and the drain plug for signs of excessive metal wear, but bear in mind that a small amount of metal salt is considered normal wear and not a cause for alarm. Clean any metal salt from the magnet on the drain plug. Apply a coat of sealant to the threads of the drain plug and install it in the transfer case. Using a foot-pound torque wrench and socket, tighten the drain plug to 13 foot-pounds.

Step 5

Add approximately 1.6 quarts of Dexron-VI ATF through the fill hole until the fluid level reaches the bottom threads of the hole. Allow any excess fluid to drain back out of the fill hole.

Step 6

Apply a coat of sealant to the threads of the fill plug and install it in the transfer case fill hole, then torque it to 13 foot-pounds. Wipe any spilled fluid from the transfer case with your shop rag. If applicable, install the transfer case shield and torque the fasteners to 15 foot-pounds. Lower the truck to the ground. Test run the truck and check the transfer case for leaks.

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