Dana 18 Transfer Case Storage

I just finished rebuilding my TC, but it will not be installed for a long while. Any ideas how to go about storing it? Dry, with fluids...? Any idea will be appreciated. After all the work done,I don't want to find out I didn't do what I had to and now is messes up. Thanks!

 

Thanks!

 

I made a block off plate for the Transmission mounting surface on mine. It was being stored for a Transmission rebuild and I left as much fluid in it as I could.

 

Sounds like a great idea! I can fabricate one out of lexan, that is easier to machine than aluminum.

 

id store it indoors in a closet or something where its not exposed to the temperature swings and condensation that garages and sheds get

 

If I do that, I will be sleeping myself in the shed.

 

Maybe put it in an old refrigerator with a bag of rice?

 

I stored a Muncie four speed in an old cooler for my Buddy, after I put the a fresh Muncie in his 62 Corvette for him. Works good for him. Never throw away an old cooler, Good Luck

 

I have a transfer case in storage that's disassembled. I put it in a plastic storage bin and hosed it down with fogging oil, the type of aerosol oil used for storing engines long term. I'm not sure how that would work for you, in regards to the compatability of that oil with gear oil upon installation.

 

Alex, I swear by CRC Marine heavy duty Corrosion Inhibitor. It comes in a light blue spray can that costs about $10. The front label says "Resists salt spray and high humidity". It is an amber waxy coating that goes on thin, then drys to a tacky finish. A very light coating is all that is needed. Solvent will clean up the film later if needed. Its great to protect gears and machined parts while stored in our high humidity.
I use this stuff as an undercoat on all the boxed areas like inside rocker panels and door bottoms when I've done repairs.
-Donny

 

Thanks, Donny! Should I spray the insides or a thorough coat on all the outside? Remeber it is fully assembled. Thanks!

 

I would sparingly spray a bit in through the pto opening to "mist" the gears as you spin them. It would be even better if you access the internals from the bottom pan. The spray does a little fogging as you spray it. I expect the coating would dissolve in gear oil when the time comes to put the T/C into use. As long as you have paint on the external surfaces, I see no need to spray there.
I also use this CRC on my lathe and Bridgeport surfaces, so your lathe may benefit with our humidity.
-Donny

 

I coat and assemble all the internal bearings with vasoline and then spray the entire case and gears downs with silicone. Just inspect every year and re-spray.