Transfer Case: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the engine and transaxle from the vehicle. See appropriate MECHANICAL article in ENGINES.
Place a drain pan or suitable container under the transfer case assembly.
Remove the transfer case drain plug and gasket (1). See Fig 1 .
Drain the transfer case.
Remove the left rear engine mount bracket (1) from the engine block. See Fig 2 .
Remove the upper 2 bolts (1) from the transfer case bracket. See Fig 3 .
Remove the lower 3 bolts (3) from the transfer case bracket. See Fig 3 .
Remove the bracket from the transfer case.
Remove the 4 right side transfer case bracket bolts (2), then remove the bracket from the transfer case. See Fig 3 .
Remove the 2 front transfer case retaining nuts (2). See Fig 4 .
Remove the 4 rear transfer case retaining nuts (1). See Fig 4 .
Using a soft faced hammer, gently dislodge the transfer case from the transaxle assembly.
Slide the transfer case horizontally to remove it from the mounting studs.

Fig 1: Locating Transfer Case Fill & Drain Plugs

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Fig 2: Identifying Left Rear Engine Mount Bracket

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Fig 3: Identifying Upper & Right Side Transfer Case Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Fig 4: Identifying Transfer Case Retaining Nuts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.