np 242 drain plug? ( is there a baffle behind it?)

Was draining fluid and noticed a black plastic peice behind plug hole. Is it supposed to be there? I was trying to see the chain and if it was loose or trying to drag on bottom of case. 89 4.0 a/t with 350,000mi on stock eng.,trans., and transfer case. I'm the original owner so you would think I would have noticed that plastic thing after 50 oil drains, any help appreciated.

There should not be. Sounds like something is loose - the pump body is plastic, and it may have fallen loose?

Just a quick thought - when I'm thinking "black plastic" in those transfer cases, that's the first thing that comes to mind.

Oil pump pick-up,tube to the pump and the shift fork pads are the only plastic pieces that I can think of.

Wayne

NOT TO WORRY, that should be the filter on the end of the pick-up tube that sits there!! It will wiggle just a bit but that is it!