2003 AWD Transfer Case

[1saxman]

I didn't feel like crawling around under the VUE when I thought of this, so I'll ask; is the transfer case lubed separately from the transmission like a 4WD or does it use the trans fluid? It suddenly struck me that if it requires a fluid change it's never been done.

[Bigdaddy94sc2]

Are you speaking of the PTO (power take off) on the trans or the RDM (rear drive module)?

[1saxman]

I should have looked in the manual before posting - the transfer case needs no regular service. They call it the 'transfer case' or 'Power Transfer Unit' (PTU).

[Bigdaddy94sc2]

The RDM does have fluid that needs to be changed, but I am sure it is around 75-100k. And oh boy that stuff stinks! Rotten egg type stink smells better than Versatrak fluid....

[1saxman]

The '03 manual does not give a service interval for the RDM, but I would say 50,000 miles would be a good place to start. Does the RDM have drain and fill plugs or do you have to take stuff apart?