Methods of Locating Transmission Fluid Leaks

GENERAL INFORMATION

Transmission Fluid Leak Check Points.

A. SHIFT ROD BUSHING SEAL.

B. TRANSMISSION CASE.

C. COOLING LINE PLUGS.

D. MAIN LINE PLUG.

E. AXLE SHAFT AND INPUT SHAFT BUSHING SEAL.

F. MANUAL SHAFT SEAL.

G. CONNECTOR SOCKET SEAL.

H. TORQUE CONVERTER SEAL.

I. TORQUE CONVERTER.

J. CHECK HOLE PLUG.

K. OIL PAN GASKET.

L. SPEED SENSOR SEAL.

M. FILLER PLUG SEAL (WITH BREATHER).

N. AXLE SHAFT AND OUTPUT SHAFT BUSHING SEAL.

O. SIDE COVER SEALS.

In most cases, locating and correcting the causes of external transmission fluid leaks

does not require removing the transmission from the vehicle.

General Method.

PROCEDURE.

1. Make sure that the leaking fluid is actually transmission fluid..

2. Thoroughly clean and wipe dry the suspected area on the case.

transaxle.

3. Drive the vehicle approximately 24 km (15 miles) or until

the transmission reaches normal operating temperature (88 °C)..

4. Park the vehicle on a sheet of clean cardboard or paper..

5. Turn off the engine and inspect the paper for oil spots.

6. Correct the causes of the fluid leaks found..

Locating Leaks Using Powder.

PROCEDURE.

1. Thoroughly clean and wipe dry the suspected area on the case.

transaxle.

2. Coat the suspected area with powder from an aerosol can..

3. Drive the vehicle approximately 24 km (15 miles) or until

3. Drive the vehicle until the transmission reaches normal operating temperature (88 °C).

4. Turn off the engine..

5. Inspect the suspected area and trace the fluid trail to locate the leak source.

6. Correct the causes of the fluid leaks found..

Locating Leaks Using Special Dye.

PROCEDURE.

1. Add dye to the transmission fluid through the filler hole in the case

in the quantity recommended by the manufacturer..

2. Visually inspect the outside of the transmission case to locate fluid leaks.

3. Correct the causes of the fluid leaks found..

Correcting Causes of Transmission Fluid Leaks.

After locating the leaks, correct the causes that led to transmission fluid leaks. The following causes of transmission fluid leaks are possible.

– Loose threaded connections.

– Corrosion damage and contamination of threaded holes in the transmission case or

fasteners.

– Displaced, damaged, or worn gaskets and seals.

– Damaged or warped sealing holes and surfaces.

– Nicks or other damage on the range selector shaft.

– Excessive bearing play and wear, which causes rapid wear of

seals and bushings.

– Casting defects in the case and covers (porosity).

– Transmission fluid level too high.

– Clogged vent (breather).

– Water or antifreeze in the transmission fluid.

– Clogged drain holes.