transfer case bearing problem

[almostblackmamba]

the last bearing in my transfer case, the one right before the emergency brake drum, tore apart today while driving. took it to the shop. what can be done? they told me i might have to replace my whole t-case, but if its just one bearing that sounds like too much. Also, if the t-case doesnt have to be removed, can the bearing be extracted from the outside, as opposed to removing the transfer case and doing from the inside?

by the way, its 1998 discovery series one.
thanks.

[Disco Mike]

They are right, if the case was damaged to the point where another bearing won't fit back properly or there is other damage, the case will have to be replaced. Best bet would be to buy a used t/case, change it's oil and install it, this would be the least expensive repair if you can't just replace the bearing.
Yes the case will probably have to be removed for a good inspection to determine if other damage was caused.
How often have you been changing your oil, or was it leaking and the fluid level dropped too low?
Mike