[IMFrank]

I understand that my Astro has one of these three transfer cases:
Borg Warner 4472
NP 231
NP 233.

1. Regardless of the cost, would you recommend having someone local rebuild mine or acquire one from a company that does nothing but rebuild and ship them? Is someone like Transfer Case Express more likely to have done a better rebuild with superior parts or would it be more likely to a local shop would do a better job? What's your experience?
2. Are the three different transfer cases interchangeable or do I have to identify exactly which one I have to before ordering a replacement?
Thanks for your input.

 

[MechBob]

Yours came from factory with the 4472. Why do you think it needs rebuilt, they rarely go bad.
Interchangeability is possible, but not "plug n play", other things need to be done. Which I suppose the proper term would be "swapped".

 

[IMFrank]

Mechanic has determined a very loud howling noise is not the rearend, but rather the transfer case.

 

[MechBob]

Well if it is just bearing(s) repair may be cheapest.Unless you have ruined major parts, like run 2 different size tires. As far as a swap, use the search box above, or googgle(as it will bring you here,to older threads) and there are a large number of threads about it.

 

[Rod's Trucks]

IIRC,
If you have a NP231 or NP233 TC, there will be an encoder motor assembly mounted between the front drive output shaft and the case, on the driver side. There will be a large electical connector ( 4 wires?) as part of that encoder motor. The encoder motor selects the AWD function when needed.

The BW 4472 has no such motor and wiring. It is full-time AWD.
The NP231 and NP233 TC's have a round red and silver ID plate on the rear side (facing the back of the vehicle). It should be very easy to see from underneath the vehicle
Rod J
Issaquah, WA

 

[sixsix]

Wonder what year the van is and what ACTUAL TC is installed...

...'member that old A$$ u me thing?


ps: I recall a entire late model rear end bought for it's G80 3.73 gearset ( RPO tag swore by it ).
- - - well, it had been changed and due to circumstances, he was ripped off.


edit: stupid forum with it's a$$ edit, but fuck is OK... go figure, canucksivilians.

 

[WimpTech]

Junkyard NP231 and a shift kit from JOR, $500 and you have a real 4x4.