Removing a BW4404

[soloist3]

Just some quick questions. As I understand it, in order to remove the 4404 I have to remove the center console inside my Mountaineer to gain access to the top bolts? Like most of us I only have simple jacks and jack stands (no lift access) and no impact tools, is it feasible to take out the TC with such "backyard mechanic" tools/supplies? Last thing, do I need to drain the transmission and the transfer case, or just the transfer case?

I am trying to make removal as easy as possible as common sense can get you by but I want to go into the process with some knowledge so I don't remove too many things I don't have to or spend too much time trying to figure out which bolts to take out to get right at it. Btw, how long of a job would you say it is to do? I have got to put a new VC in my transfer case (which I am not too worried about) but getting the TC out and back in with just jack stands and regular tools is what worries me.

 

[section525]

I've done it by placing the jack under the tranny, then removing the tranny crossmember bolts. Let the jack down a little bit and you'll gain quite a bit of clearance on the top of the tcase. Just drain the transfer case.. if you want.

 

[IZwack]

You shouldnt need to remove the center console to remove the transfer case - just have super flexible noodly arms

 

[explorinitup]

yea 525 is right u should be able to get it that way but when i did my 4406 swoop i pulled the concle but if u have a body lift it a cake walk and i dont haft to pull anything

 

[soloist3]

Ok, I don't have a body lift so jack under trans will probably be my choice. Btw, does that mean that the transfer case is held in only by the trans extension as underneath the heat/protective shields there does not appear to be any secondary support (unless you count the trans cross-member). Well, better get it up on stands, hopefully I can get it all done by tomorrow before work otherwise I'm walking (good thing I am only 3/4 mile from work).

 

[section525]

Btw, does that mean that the transfer case is held in only by the trans extension?

Yup!

 

[IZwack]

Ok, I don't have a body lift so jack under trans will probably be my choice. Btw, does that mean that the transfer case is held in only by the trans extension as underneath the heat/protective shields there does not appear to be any secondary support (unless you count the trans cross-member). Well, better get it up on stands, hopefully I can get it all done by tomorrow before work otherwise I'm walking (good thing I am only 3/4 mile from work).

Thats right, the transfer case's weight is supported only by the transmission's tailshaft housing. The skid plate under it does not come in contact or support the transfer case.

You should be able to get it done by the end of today - the transfer case itself is only held on by like 5 bolts. The only other bolts I can think of are the driveshaft bolts and the transmission mount bolts.

 

[92eddie4x4]

You shouldnt need to remove the center console to remove the transfer case - just have super flexible noodly arms

I can easily get all of the bolts loose except for one, any advice would be appreciated. I'm having trouble with the passenger side exhaust upper bolt. There just isn't any room to rotate the socket or box wrench for bolt removal. Removing the exhaust almost seems the only method, but that is a chore I'm not willing to do with all the corroded fasteners.

This is on a '97 V8 AWD with the BW4404.

 

[92eddie4x4]

Am I the only one who has run into the exhaust interference problem? Perhaps I'll just cut the bolts out, drop it and install new fasteners.

 

[IZwack]

As I remember, the upper one on the exhaust side just needs a long set of socket extensions and maybe a swivel joint to get around the exhaust pipes. As a last ditch, remove the center console and access the bolts from the top via the transmission tunnel cover - but this takes a lot of time because you will also have to remove the seats to peal the carpet back.

 

[Turdle]

Take the console out and get the top bolts easy!!

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=209770


You can almost see them in this picture--