That explains the leak in the transfer case. That size dent can break things and crack the transfer case. Not always but it can. Vibration can do serious damage if it is left unrepaired. I would check and make sure the gaskets are good and the seal between the transmission and transfer case are good. Fun owning one of these old trucks. They are good work trucks I was told told. Yes this is true. You can work on them everyday. But truth be told I have rebuilt a few in stock form and run them hard for many years with minor setbacks during the run. You are on the right track. Good Luck and Keep on Truckin.
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I really hope there isn't any damage, but if there is I guess it's just more money unfortunately. I just want to hit the road, but things keep coming up.
So I was thinking about pulling the TC, but I kinda have some doubts doing it. For one, I'm a one man show and don't have any help. I'd really hate to be trying to balance the thing on a jack and disconnecting it and drop it on the ground or on myself. The TH400 and 208 look to be pretty darn heavy! Anyone ever use one of the harbor freight low lift transmission jacks and do this type of job at home? Is it safe and manageable for one person to drop the trans and TC?
Otherwise what I'm thinking is once I get the drive shafts back, I just pop them in and take it over to a transmission shop. I've been calling around and I was told that at best case scenario if nothing is cracked and just needs a seal they can do for it around $600, and that includes installing the new flex plate. That doesn't sound too bad. If it is cracked it will obviously be more because I'll have to replace things. I'm planning to get under there and clean and inspect what's going on, but we're having a rain storm in WI right now.
Another thing I was thinking about is the rear main seal. The best time to tackle that would be when the transmission is removed, correct? Is it worth messing with if it is not leaking? I'm trying to get all the things done that I can to prevent issues on the road. Does anyone know the correct fel pro part number for the rear seal?
While I'm waiting I think it would also be a good idea to swap out the harmonic balancer. From what I've read it doesn't seem too hard, as long as I have the proper puller tool. Which one should I go with? Standard AC Delco, or something more expensive like the fluidampr? Also, I see a lot of these kits say they don't include the bolt and washer. Does anyone know the part number for the bolt and washer?
Also....I discovered my power steering bracket is broken. It is just the tab on the top left that broke off--I still have the piece as it was being held on by the nut there. Everything is still holding firm while the motor is running, but I'm going to need to fix that too. I guess I'll remove it and get it welded somewhere.
One thing after the other it seems... But I'm determined to get it all done.
Again, thanks for all the help and advice. I really appreciate it!