This is what I am up against. It is now 2017 and my car isn't worth even $10K, and the dealer wants $4500 to replace the PTO. At 112K miles no warranty.

Car is undrivable as it is. It sounds like the engine is going to drop out -- dragging tin cans or parts underneath.

This seems to be a common problem with the Ford Escape and Fords in general. There are similar class actions pending but not regarding this specific thing. Does anyone know if someone has gotten any deal from Ford for fixing this?

 

I was able to do this myself, using a gently used transfer case. I had never even changed a strut before, so I had to watch a lot of how-to's. It took two full weekends. Is it within reason to simply remove the PTO and drive shaft and revert to FWD only? Its an ugly, but cheap idea.