Overdrive is in...Transfer case is next :(

Well I got the overdrive in this morning and MAN what a difference! Figured I would give the jeep a good break-in and take it on the trail for the first time. Everything worked as expected except when I put it in low range it sounded like a dryer full of ball bearings :evil: It held together and got me home but now above 30mph I get a horrible whine and if take the clutch out or put it in neutral at anything above 30mph I can hear the same grinding in or out of low range. This leads me to believe the transfer case is pretty much shot.

So my questions are:
1. I was looking at the complete Dana 18 available through Herm The Overdrive Guy and $300+core sounds VERY reasonable for a ready to go transfer case. Does anyone have experience with one of his rebuilt D18s?

2. Would it be worth my while to replace the T90 with a rebuilt unit as well for $400? I'm not sure how to verify if the transmission is in good shape (no problems with second gear popping out yet and teeth looked good when I had the top off). The only problem I can identify is that the syncro from 2 to 3 is pretty bad and grinds going to 3rd sometimes.

Any insight/info you can give would be greatly appreciated!

 

Herm is a good guy and will stand behind all his products. You've got it apart now, so now would be the time to do it if you can. There are good people out there who sell them a little cheaper but Herm can usually make up for it with his cheaper shipping cost. I'd do it all at once and not look back, but that's me. If you were close to me I'd say bring it all over and I'd go through it with you. Nickmil

 

I agree, Herm has a sterling reputation. I think that since both boxes share their gear lube, I would replace both at once. I would not want to risk the tranny lunching itself and taking my "new" Transfer case with it. With herms reputation, I would buy both from him. I know that he is reasonable and he delivers a quality product. His after the sale service is second to none, so if you run into problems during the install he will be glad to help you out! Good luck, Matt W.