The BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case (Borg‑Warner) transfer case is a chain‑driven, aluminum‑cased, all-wheel-drive (AWD) manual shift unit commonly paired with GM vehicles from the early‑to‑late 1990s, including:
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Chevrolet Astro or GMC Safari AWD (1990–1998),
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Oldsmobile Bravada (1991–1997),
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GMC Syclone (1991–1992) and Typhoon (1992–1993)
The BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case is essentially the same internals housed in a slightly different casting, appearing on similar models (notably late‑1990s Astro, Safari, Jimmy) and often interchangeable with the BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case
Ideal for rebuilding, repairing, or replacing existing units, these transfer cases are sought after by restoration and parts hunters alike.
Condition & History
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Original / New Old Stock Rear Half: Available on listing shows a rear half assembly (Part #1372‑565‑001) in “New other” condition (unused but missing original packaging) for around US $175
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Remanufactured Complete Assembly (BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case): US Powertrain offers a fully remanufactured BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case for US $1,095, including OE-grade components (Timken/Koyo bearings, new BorgWarner chain), inspection, spin‑testing, and a 24‑month / 24,000‑mile warranty
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Rebuild Kits (bearings, gaskets, seals): TPD Pro‑Line offers the BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case (includes adapter gasket, seals for input/front/rear outputs, premium bearings, thrust washers, etc.) for US $88.77 (discounted from $99.95), with worldwide shipping
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Bearing & Seal Kit (USA Standard Gear ZTBK1372): Around US $161–177, includes bearings, seals, gaskets for a full tear‑down rebuild
Why It Matters
Owners commonly face issues like worn chains, leaky seals, or bearing wear. Repairing or rebuilding is often more cost‑effective than a replacement:
Buyer’s Guide & Suggestions
Identify Your Exact Model & Condition
Check the metallic tin tag on the case typically located on the rear bolt area to confirm whether you have a BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case
Choose Between Options Based on Budget and Skill
Option | Pros | Cons |
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Used Rear Half (~$175) | Lower cost, original OEM | Only one side; likely requires other parts |
Rebuild Kit (~$90–160) | Affordable, complete internals refresh | Requires mechanical skill and tools |
Remanufactured Complete Case (~$1,095) | Turn‑key solution, warranty-backed | Higher cost |
DIY Full Rebuild | Cheapest path if DIY-savvy | Labor-intensive, tools required |
Local Sourcing vs Online Purchase
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If available, sourcing locally or regionally might save on cost and shipping delay.
Tools & Resources for Rebuild
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Snap‑ring pliers (oversized), basic hand tools, cleaning solvents, RTV sealant, torque specs.
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Many YouTube tutorials are available to guide novices through the rebuild process.
Shipping & Import Notes
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If purchasing overseas, always inspect shipping costs, customs duties, and return policies closely.
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Sellers like US Powertrain provide flat‑rate shipping and warranties but are U.S.‑based
Sample Ad Description (~1500 words style) — Condensed
For Sale: BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case Choice of Used Part, Rebuild Kit, or Fully Remanufactured
Overview:
Whether you’re restoring a Chevy Astro, GMC Safari, Oldsmobile Bravada, or turbocharged GMC Syclone/Typhoon, here’s your one-stop opportunity to secure the proper Borg‑Warner BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case unit. Available as a bargain used rear half, comprehensive rebuild kit, or fully remanufactured AWD-ready assembly.
Options:
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Used OEM Rear Case Half (Part 1372‑565‑001)
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Condition: “New Other” (unused but packaging may be incomplete)
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Price: approx. US $175
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Ideal for complementing a parted-out build or replacing a damaged half.
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TPD Pro‑Line Rebuild Kit (BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case)
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Includes: Adapter gasket, all seals (input, output, yoke), premium bearings, thrust washers, plus 12-month warranty
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Price: US $88.77 (discounted)
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Great for DIYers—a cost-effective path to like-new internals.
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USA Standard Gear Bearing/Seal Kit (ZTBK1372)
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OEM-quality kit, bearings and seals included, made in USA
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Price: approx US $160
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A solid mid-tier rebuild option with high component quality.
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Fully Remanufactured BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case (US Powertrain)
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Factory rebuilt with a new Borg‑Warner chain, OE-grade bearings, 3-step testing—backed by 24-month / 24,000-mile warranty
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Price: US $1,095 + $600 core deposit
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Turn-key, reliable, and excellent for those not wanting to mess with rebuilds.
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Why Choose This Transfer Case?
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Fits 1990–1998 Astro/Safari AWD, 1991–1997 Bravada, 1991–1992 Syclone, 1992–1993 Typhoon.
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Proven, durable chain‑driven design with readily available parts and rebuild support.
DIY & Community Insights:
Shipping & Warranty:
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US Powertrain ships fast within U.S., includes warranty—but factor in international shipping and customs.
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Kits and parts ship worldwide, with free shipping often included in the U.S. ($150+ qualifies in some cases).
How to Order:
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Specify whether you need the rear half only, a rebuild kit, or a full remanufactured case.
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Provide your vehicle model/year and existing tag info to ensure fitment.
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Ask about shipping and warranty terms—especially for international buyers.
Summary
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Budget-Friendly DIY: Start with the BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case(~US $89) or USA Standard kit (~US $160).
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Middle‑Ground: Secure a used rear half (~US $175) if you already have one side.
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No-Fuss Option: Opt for the fully remanufactured transfer case (~US $1,095 + core deposit) — let someone else do the work.
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Fitment Tip: Confirm BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case via case tag; both share interchange parts and application range.
Let me know if you’d like help sourcing shipping quotes to Canada, checking compatibility with your specific vehicle, or locating installation guides or tools!
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Technical specifications
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Installation notes
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Common problems and fixes
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Differences between BW1372 and BW4472
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FAQs for buyers
Technical Specifications BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case
Specification | Details |
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Manufacturer | BorgWarner |
Model Numbers | BW1372, BW4472 |
Type | Chain-driven, full-time AWD |
Torque Split | 35/65 front/rear (nominal), non-adjustable |
Case Material | Cast aluminum |
Lubrication | ATF (Dexron III recommended) |
Shift Type | Automatic (viscous coupling), full-time AWD — no 2WD/4WD selection |
Input Spline Count | Typically 27 or 32 (varies with model) |
Output | Front and rear slip-yoke or fixed-yoke (application dependent) |
Chain Type | Morse Hy-Vo (OEM spec) |
Weight (approx.) | 65–70 lbs (30–32 kg) |
Compatible Vehicles | See list below |
Vehicle Fitment Guide
Here’s where you’ll typically find the BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case;
BW4472:
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1991–1992 GMC Syclone
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1992–1993 GMC Typhoon
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1991–1997 Oldsmobile Bravada
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1990–1998 Chevrolet Astro AWD
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1990–1998 GMC Safari AWD
BW1372:
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1996–1998 GMC Jimmy
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1996–1998 Chevrolet Blazer
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1996–1997 Oldsmobile Bravada
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1997–1998 Chevrolet Astro AWD (in later years)
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1997–1998 GMC Safari AWD
Installation Tips
Installing a transfer case is a moderate to advanced mechanical task. It usually takes 3–5 hours with proper tools and a lift or jack stands.
Required Tools:
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Transmission jack or floor jack
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Socket set and torque wrench
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Snap ring pliers
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Pry bar (for separating old case from adapter)
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ATF (Dexron III), approx. 2–3 quarts
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RTV silicone sealant (if opening case)
Steps (Generalized):
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Disconnect battery
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Drain old fluid
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Remove driveshafts (mark orientation to avoid vibration)
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Support and unbolt old transfer case
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Install replacement unit, ensuring correct alignment
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Reconnect driveshafts, refill with fluid, test run
Common Issues with BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case
These transfer cases are reliable, but age and mileage bring wear. Common problems include:
Stretched Chain
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Symptoms: Clunking noise, poor engagement, “slip” feeling under load.
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Fix: Replace chain (~US $90–120 OEM). Avoid cheaper aftermarket chains — they stretch quickly.
Worn Bearings / Noisy Operation
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Symptoms: Whining, grinding, vibration.
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Fix: Full rebuild using quality bearings (e.g., Koyo/Timken/NSK).
Viscous Coupler Failure
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Symptoms: Driveline binding in turns, front/rear axle not engaging smoothly.
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Fix: Replacement is best — the coupler is usually sealed and not rebuildable. Some aftermarket rebuilds avoid this failure by using open-diff-like setups or upgraded LSDs.
Leaky Seals / Fluid Loss
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Symptoms: Wet casing, low fluid, overheating.
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Fix: Replace front/rear output seals — included in most rebuild kits.
Differences: BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case
Aspect | BW1372 | BW4472 |
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Primary Use | Later GM AWD SUVs | Early GM AWD vans and performance trucks |
Case Design | Slightly different external casting | Standard BorgWarner AWD housing |
Internal Parts | Mostly identical (same chain, seals, etc.) | Mostly identical |
Tag Number Prefix | 1372-XXX | 4472-XXX |
Swappability | Yes, with spline/input match | Yes, with spline/input match |
In most cases, if the input/output shafts and spline count match, you can swap a BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case interchangeably. Always check the tag number.
FAQs Buyer Questions Answered
Q: Is this transfer case full-time AWD or selectable 4WD?
A: Full-time AWD. There’s no switch it’s always active and relies on the viscous coupler for torque distribution.
Q: Can I install this on a 2WD Astro/Safari?
A: No. Your 2WD chassis lacks the necessary front differential, front driveshaft, and front suspension configuration. You’d need a full AWD drivetrain conversion.
Q: Can I rebuild this transfer case myself?
A: Yes many experienced DIYers rebuild these units. All necessary rebuild kits are available, and tutorials exist. Be cautious with internal snap rings and tolerances.
Q: Can I use BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case parts interchangeably?
A: Most internal parts yes. Outer case halves and shaft splines may differ slightly. Confirm your spline count and case tag number.
Q: What fluid does it use?
A: Dexron III ATF. Many synthetic Dex/Merc variants also work well.
Optional Upgrades
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Upgraded chain (Morse / Borg-Warner OEM): Lasts longer, resists stretch
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Performance viscous coupler: Tighter torque bias, better handling
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Aluminum rear cover upgrade: Prevents cracking under load
Shipping & International Buyers
From the U.S. to Cameroon or Abroad:
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Expect to pay $150–400 shipping depending on the service and weight.
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Consider freight consolidators or shipping via third-party logistics like MyUS or Shop&Ship if buying multiple items.
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Inquire about customs/duty costs — most countries treat drivetrain parts as taxable imports.
Some retailers (like US Powertrain or TPD) do not offer international shipping directly, so you may need a freight forwarding service.
Pricing Recap
Product | Price (USD) | Source |
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Rear Case Half (used, NOS) | $175 | Budsautoparts |
TPD Rebuild Kit (BK1372) | $88.77 (sale) | TPD |
USA Std. Bearing Kit (ZTBK1372) | $160–177 | CSP Racing, others |
Complete Reman Transfer Case | $1,095 + $600 core | US Powertrain |
OEM Chain (Morse / BorgWarner) | $80–120 | Online (eBay, RockAuto) |
1. Best price on rebuild kits, ships worldwide
2.Complete reman transfer case, quality guarantee
3. Used OEM rear case half, other rebuild kits and rare parts
4.Premium USA-made bearing and seal kit
Final Recommendation
If you’re a mechanic or restorer, the BW1372 / BW4472 Transfer Case is a well-supported, rebuildable, and durable component — whether you’re upgrading, repairing, or restoring an AWD GM vehicle.