Transfer case or transfer ownership

Hey 4runner wizards, I'm seeking some sage advise on what to do with a quickly aging 2003 runner with 250,000 miles and zero modifications. Ive been chasing an issue the past two weeks which involved replacing a hub (twice) and the CV axle on the drivers front. I finally gave in and brought it to a real shop who said the issue was the transfer case. Basically it sounds like I'm dragging tin cans. The issue was fairly quiet and sounded more like a light grinding which is the reason for the hub replacement initially. I really like the car, but the quote from the shop ($3000) is pushing sorta close to the value of the car. On top of this I have the dreaded VSC TRAC ABS Etc. lights all glowing on my dash, and in my neck of the woods I hear I cant pass inspection with an ABS light on. Also, i'm due for inspection Feb 1
My big question is, it appears replacing a transfer case is reasonably easy. is this true? should i just do it myself? and while I'm tearing in to it is there other stuff that should be replaced with such high mileage?
Part two is more opinion. With this repair, and a pending transmission replacement (already slipping), whats the chance that i'm going down a long line of expensive repairs and should part ways? I don't have a clue what to due about the ABS light as I've got through several options with no luck. (zero point calibration, fuses, gas cap, brake lights)
Thanks in advance for any help,
Max

 

Really nobody could answer if you should do it yourself or not only you know your own ability and knowledge. I'd say if you've never done anything more than oil changes yourself then no don't attempt it. I wouldn't fix it personally if it were me but then again I don't know your personal situation. You say you already have a slipping transmission so that will be 4,000 time to bail just my humble opinion.
And for anyone that says doing it yourself is easy well so is surgery if you know how. Again only you know your own comfort level.

 

Thanks DGP, good point, Maybe better wording would be, "can the average person figure this out with internet instructions".

 

You also need to consider tools for the job. I have replaced just about everything on my 4runner except Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case and Rear axle. The tools to do the job yourself could run several hundred dollars. There are Transmissions and Transfer Cases out there and with time and research I am pretty sure it can be done, maybe as not as timely as you want though.