What will it take to swap the manual 4x4 transfer case in my Silverado with an AWD transfer case out of a Sierra C3/Denali or Escalade? My tranny is an auto. I like 4-wheels driven, but I think the AWD is more practical since it kicks in automatically and also works fine on dry pavement. Also good for performance potential.

I think the bolt pattern on the tranny is the same, although I could be wrong. I have no idea if the input/output shafts are the same. I have no idea if the AWD transfer case needs power or has a computer module or anything. A used transfer case is a bit too expensive for me to invest in, only to find out I can't do the swap.

So if anyone has any knowledge, parts microfiche to look through, etc. PLEASE let me know!

 

I like this idea too. For the right price, I'd swap transfer cases. I use autotrac when it looks like I will need the traction.

I do think there would be a small economy hit due to the fact that it uses some energy to turn and drive other components over a 2wd setup.

 

I'm willing to risk the fuel economy hit, but the cheapest AWD transfer case from a C3/Escalade is $750+shipping. That's kind of a lot of money to take a risk that might not pan out.

What I need is to find someone that has a 99-02 parts microfiche and can compare part #'s on the driveshafts and trans output shaft. Also someone with access to Alldata and can get schematics of the transfer case electronics.

Anyone? Anyone?

 

I emailed a guy at a junkyard that will sell me an AWD transfer case for $850 shipped.
He says he thinks it will bolt up and the splines will match, but he is concerned about compatibility. One thing he mentioned was being concerned about how the tranny will shift. Now what does shifting of the tranny have to do with the transfer case?

 

I did a search a while back on AWD tranfer cases and came up with a great discussion about the different cases and problems with using them. I believe it was on a Syclone/Typhoon page but, I can't find it again. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Sad]" src="gr_sad.gif" />

If I remember correctly the newer vehicles do have some computer controls on the awd t-case that would make it more difficult to hook up.

I'll get some pictures and measurements of the t-case on the Denali and 2500HD as soon as I can. I'm gonna have to wait until my mom is gone because she ain't gonna like her brand new Denali jacked up. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Eek!]" src="gr_eek2.gif" />

John

 

I've got some emails out(Speartech, Advance Adapters) also for more info on the newer transfer cases/controls.

I'll let you know what I find out when I get any info. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" />

John <img border="0" alt="[cheers]" title="" src="graemlins/gr_cheers.gif" />