Transfer Assembly Inspection

Raise the vehicle, and make sure it is supported securely.
Shift the transmission into the N position.
Make a reference mark (A) across the propeller shaft (B) and the transfer companion flange (C).

Fig 1: Identifying Loosening Torque Of Propeller Shaft Bolts
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Separate the propeller shaft from the transfer assembly.
Set a dial indicator (A) on the transfer companion flange (B), and measure the transfer gear backlash.
Standard: 0.06-0.16 mm (0.02-0.06 in.)

Fig 2: Measuring Transfer Gear Backlash
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the measurement is out of standard, remove the transfer assembly, and adjust the transfer gear backlash (see TRANSFER ASSEMBLY ).
Check for fluid leaks between the mating surfaces of the transfer assembly and transmission.
If there is a leak, remove the transfer assembly, and replace the O-ring. Also check for fluid leaks between the mating surfaces of the transfer housing and transfer cover. If there is a leak, remove the transfer cover, and replace the O-ring.
Check for leaks between the transfer companion flange and transfer oil seal.
If there is a leak, remove the transfer assembly from the transmission, and replace the transfer oil seal and O-ring on the transfer output shaft. If oil seal and O-ring replacement is required, you will need to check and adjust the transfer gear tooth contact, transfer gear backlash, the tapered roller bearing starting torque, and the total starting torque (see REASSEMBLY ). Do not replace the oil seal with the transfer assembly on the transmission.