Transfer Case

shakazulu12 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-16-07, 04:43 PM

Does anyone know which transfer case was in what years of the EXT?

I know for 2002 it had the NVG149 in it, but I can't find anything after that.

Or, to phrase this better. Did the EXT ever go to an open differential with no viscous coupling, and if it did, what year did that happen?

**Playdrv4me** · #2 (**permalink**) 04-16-07, 04:51 PM

2002-2006 were all the same. The only years that were different were 1999-2000.

shakazulu12 · #3 (**permalink**) 04-16-07, 09:02 PM

Thanks! Been looking all over for the answer to that one.

**Playdrv4me** · #4 (**permalink**) 04-16-07, 11:36 PM

No problem. This is one of my DISlikes about the Escalade. Due to the market that the Escalade was intended for (and thats not really even fair because the Touareg, Range Rover, and Navigator all have selectable low ranges), they decided to make the Escalade AWD only from 2002 on.

My 2004 Avalanche by comparison, had the trick transfer case setup which would allow you to select 2, 4HI, 4LO *OR* 4 ALL TIME *if* you wanted it.

Theres a few implications as a result. Number one is the fact that parts are always wearing, number 2 is the fact that you get inherently better fuel economy when your running in 2WD versus AWD mode, so its nice to be able to SELECT 2WD for dry pavement use, rather than be forced to use AWD all the time, regardless of how it applies power.

shakazulu12 · #5 (**permalink**) 04-17-07, 12:20 AM

I'm actually on the side that cares more for the AWD system than anything. This will get used almost exclusively on ice and snow. While 4wd is fine on snow, I much prefer AWD on ice, as the front end doesn't get pushed out in corners.

The only wheeling I do, I have always been able to drive a passenger car to, so I'm part of the group that doesnt need a true 4WD system, though I do admit, it would be way better if they made it selectable. I swear it couldn't have cost that much to add a center lock and a low range? But I also see how the market for the EXT is different than the Avalanche, which is more likely to be used in mud/sand on construction sites and as a general workhorse vehicle.

My concern on the transfer case is that the NGV149 has come in and out of the lineup with GM over the years from what i have seen printed (Yukon Denali in 01 and 02, Sierra Denali in all years, Escalade SUV only 01-02? and a few other models here and there). It differs from the other AWD systems in that it has a mechanical viscous couple that routes up to 100% of the power front to back, makes a huge difference for my needs. I'm not a fan of the ABS based traction control systems that use an open diff, if you get stuck, the wrong wheels spin every time. Was all set on the Sierra Denali until I sat in the extended cab version last weekend and it wasn't big enough, and the bed on the crew cab is too small to put drywall or plywood in it. I have rentals and flip houses here and there, so sometimes I need all the room I can get. The EXT seems to have every feature that I need, and I saw an 04 on craigslist today for 21k, which really got my attention.

Thanks a ton, this forum is a wealth of information!

**Playdrv4me** · #6 (**permalink**) 04-17-07, 12:37 AM

Glad to help. Be wary of ultracheap Craigslist deals though. If its 21k it should have high miles or have some issue that makes it 21. Otherwise Id say its some sort of scam.

Theres an 03 with a salvage title here in FL for 20, and I paid 22 for MY 03 with low miles, which was considered below wholesale. 21 for an 04 does not sound right.