Salvaged Transfer Case for 2002 XLT?

[sfbayjay]

Considering replacing my 2002 XLT's (4WD w/ dash switches, not AWD, and no ControlTrac or stability control) transfer case with a salvaged one. I think I have a Borg Warner 4411 transfer case -- does that seem right?

Anyway, mine has a small crack below the drain plug and is leaking fluid. (Separate post on this HERE) A couple of shops have inspected and tell me that it's not really cheaper to try and replace just half the shell -- they say it would be best (cheapest) just to drop the existing one and install a used unit.

A few questions:

1. Do we agree that installing a complete salvaged unit would be cheaper than trying to change half the case?

2. Any advise for finding a good quality 4411 from a salvage yard or service? I've never really purchased any salvaged parts before... Where/how should I look and what should I know about this process?

3. Are these units pretty much "plug and play?" I keep reading about all sorts of issues related to proper grounding of the unit (via gasket between the transmission and transfer case), problems shifting in and out of 4WD after new unit installed, etc. I have a referral to a "good" transmission shop in my area -- is it safe to bet they can make this swap without issue, or is this something worthy of dealership?

Thanks for any comments!

 

[not8taxi]

i recently replace my transfer case on my 02 explorer...i went with a rebuilt one for about 1600....i got it with a 1 year/unlimited mile warranty...i didnt go with the salvage yards just because i really didnt know how many miles were on them and how much they were abused...

 

[sfbayjay]

i recently replace my transfer case on my 02 explorer...i went with a rebuilt one for about 1600....

Yikes! 1600 is probably close to 1/3 of my truck's blue book value.

I hear what you're saying, though, about not knowing anything about the "past life" of a salvaged transfer case, but if I can buy one and have it installed for $600-ish, I'd have almost three tries available for $1600.

Hope your replacement is working out for you, and cool you got a good warranty!

I'm still looking for a good way to try and stop this little leak and delay the whole ordeal!

 

[04 EDGE]

www.car-part.com

You will need to know the part number on the tag as there is many to choose from.

 

[Javadog123]

Before you go through the whole hassle, try some JB weld.