Will Autotrack II hurt my transfer case?

[dross99_si]

I believe the Escalade has AWD which means it's always giving power to all 4 wheels. 4WD is what the Tahoe has, where you can select between 2WD and 4WD. If you have the 2nd knob with the 2 low, auto, 4 low & 4 high next to the headlight knob, you have a 4WD vehicle and it SHOULD take Auto Track II fluid. You can always call the parts department at your local dealer and give them your VIN and they will tell you what fluids you are supposed to use.
If the fluid was blue when you drained it it's Auto Trak II.

 

[Jason_S]

I just got confused from this post. I know 4X4 and AWD are not the same but there is a difference on these cars?

If our car has the second knob to the right of headlight knob, that should mean the car has AWD correct? And if it has "auto" as an option, it should take Autotrak II? What is difference between GMT800 and GMT900?

GMT800 and GMT900 refer to the platform. GMT900 is the 2007 through 2014 model years. GMT800 will cover the body style ending in 2006, but I forget the first year of that style, '01 maybe.

AWD transfer cases are non selectable and typically found on the Escalades and Denalis, but I believe that they could be ordered on the Chevys and other GMCs. There will not be a knob next to the headlight knob with an AWD transfer case.

The 4WD transfer cases come in two basic varieties: Those with Auto and those without. Those without auto will function just like a traditional 4WD transfer case. Those with Auto also come in two varieties: Those that take the autotrak2 (at2) fluid and those that do not. The transfer cases that take the AT2 fluid are for 2007 and earlier transfer cases with the auto option. 2008 and Newer transfer cases will use DexVI. Both versions of the "Auto" function the same. When placed in auto, there is a progressive style (IIRC) clutch that separates the front axle from the rear, then if the rear tires slip, torque is transferred to the front tires.

 

[Meccanoble]

Thanks for clearing that up guys. So AWD really means ALWAYS 4WD vs 4WD where you control when to turn it on. Subaru vs most other crossovers. Makes sense. Looks like I take Dexron VI which is all my fluids then (transfer cases, differentials).

Any recommendation on where to get this fluid at best price or just hit up dealer? Sorry for thread jacking. OP, sounds like they would be interchangable but I'm sure they switched to the Dex for a reason. Havent heard common horror stories with bad cases which is common for changes in fluid (ex: Acura TL tranny fluids) but worth the change IMO.

 

[Jason_S]

You can get a dexron vi rated oil at any parts store from any of the common brands. Might be able to save a little online if you look around.

From what was mentioned in an earlier post, it looks like they changed designs, and the new design may not be as specific about oil additives.