I've got a 1994 3VZE A/T 4WD 4Runner and I found a weird leaky nipple on my transfer case. Full disclosure there is also a leak coming from the transfer case rear output shaft oil seal but I have cleaned up both areas and can confirm it is not the oil seal leak migrating over to this nipple. I have attached a bunch of photos. I cleaned this nipple and the surrounding area real well with brake clean and I could see some kind of white stuff inside the hole. RTV? No clue. After about 20 minutes the leak was noticeable again. I does not seem like it is coming from the bolt hole beside the nipple either.

What is this nipple and how can I stop the leak?


Transfer case looking forwards towards front of vehicle. Damper in foreground. I'm pointing to the location of the nipple.

leaky nipple

leaky nipple

leaky nipple

 

did you ever figure this out? I have the same truck with the same issue right now

 

I have 7 kids, 3 different mothers, all breast fed. I'm very familiar with leaky nipples...

Sorry I couldn't resist...
Pat☺

 

@tylerwdavis
Actually I never did figure it out. In the meantime I have moved on to other issues. I suspect its still slowly leaking. I'll take another look when it gets warmer out and update here. I did stick a little high temp gasket maker in the nipple last summer and I remember that it seemed to have stopped the leak...at least for the week or two that I was monitoring it. But I suspect thats not a permanent fix.

 

Copy that I appreciate the follow up. Couldn’t find anything online or in the FSM transmission manuals. I was considering putting some FIPG on mine too but I was worried about it possibly pressurizing the TC if that nipple is a weep hole. Truck runs and shifts just fine otherwise

 

@tylerwdavis Ah interesting thought about the weep hole theory. Maybe ill take a look sooner than later and take the FIPG plug out.

 

Since the actual breather hose is much higher and on the top of the TC, idk if it is actually a weep hole. Someone suggested it might have come from the factory with a plastic cap that has since disintegrated.
But if you plugged yours a year ago with no noticeable issues that’s good enough for me. I’m tired of looking at the ATF stain on my driveway. Lmk if you notice anything on yours next time you’re under there, thanks!

 

Any updates fellas? Now I have a leaky nipple with no understanding of what to do.

 

I put a dab of black FIPG on it and haven’t had any issues (leaking or shifting) since

 

Thx for the quick reply. I have a mechanic trying to sell a transfer case service job for $600+ without seeing the car.