I am looking at buying an evo 8 when i put it up on the lift i noticed that the transfer case was leaking from what i would guess is the rear transfer case seal ( drip comming out where driveshaft exits the transfercase) is this just a seal and is it hard to change?

 

Yeah, just a seal, one of the few easy fixes on the car. Just make sure that that is the actual leak location. Fluids can blow around under the car and fool you.

If the car is at a dealer, why not have them do it before you take possession?

 

You better make sure it has not been leaking for long or a lot. Because the transfer case running low on oil can cause serious damage to it and you may need to replace it down the road...

 

^What he said.

Collectively, we can't stress enough the importance of having the right kind/level of fluid in there. If you are serious about buying the car, and the seller allows it, ask them to change the fluid and reveal what's left in there. This sounds ridiculous, but go research the cost of a new transfer case and you'll understand my concern.

I didn't did this on mine when I bought it at 59k (yes lucky me). When I changed the fluids at 60k, they were dangerously low- especially the transfer, which has no leaks at all. I'm now at around 73k and time will tell if any damage took place. I really hope not.

I don't know what the critical level is, I just know it's not something to mess around with. It only holds a little over 1/2 a qt. when full. Good luck!