Transfer case fill plug location?

I bought a 2000 RAV4 AWD recently, and am changing out all the fluids. I easily found the transfer case's drain plug, (hanging low, pointing down, just barely on the passenger's side) but possibly haven't found the fill plug.

There is a plug facing toward the back of the vehicle on the driver's side, and is very close to (~ 1 in., and facing) a cross-member. I suspect this is the fill plug, but there is barely any height difference with the drain, and it doesn't look like the gear oil would flow to the sump from it due to a rise in the case between.

Q1: Is this the fill plug? If not where is it?

q2: If so, is it wise to tilt the vehicle a bit to the passenger's side to get the gear oil into the sump, then level it out to let the excess drain out?

Thanks for your responses, Brian

Reply to
Brian
Loading thread data ...

That is probably it. On a Rav4 AWD there may not be much of a T-case, if you know what I mean, so it may not take much fuild. At least check it through the fill plug. Take it out and stick your finger in there or a piece of wire to check the level. The bottom of the fill plug is usually the proper level. If you have the owners manual, it should say what the refill amount is. See if looks like what you estimate it should be.

-PM

Reply to
Patrick Moore

Patrick Moore wrote: ...

FYI -- I just found out via questions on

formatting link
that there is a hidden transfer case/center differential dipstick on AWD RAV4s! You access it via the right front wheel well. Turn the wheel fully to the left, and from the back side of the tire, the orange dipstick can be seen near the tie rod. This is also the fill point. Too bad it isn't mentioned in the owner's manual ...

Reply to
Brian

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.