how hot should transfer case get
 

Hi all new to forum I have a 2005 escape. Question (of course) I changed the transfer case oil (and read in manual not needed?) any way I must of over filled because after a 50 mile ride after parking I smelled oil and checked and it seemed to have come out of vent tube and hot to touch oil on exhaust and other places. So I got paranoid and drained and put new (again) 75-140 synthetic in to proper level and it still seems hot shot with temp gun after 10 mile ride (or so) and temp said 170 degrees how hot should it be? Sorry for long post. Please let me know?

170° is not hot. That would be about normal operating temperature. Besides moving parts causing heat, the unit will also absorb heat from the surrounding area/equipment (engine (runs about 220°), transmission, exhaust and such). Temp may even run a little hotter depending on where you live and drive (Sun/Asphalt roads/stop-n-go traffic). That's why a good synthetic is a good choice as it will cause the component(s) to run up to 20-50 degrees cooler due to reduced internal friction and its ability to pick up and dissipate heat.

K thanks that helps ease the mind wife`s escape and it has performed well now she can drive it and not worry.

No problem...Happy Trails...