Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Methods For Locating Leaks

NOTE: The cause of most external leaks can generally be located and repaired with the transmission in the vehicle.

GENERAL METHOD
1. Verify that the leak is transmission fluid.
2. Thoroughly clean the suspected leak area.
3. Operate the vehicle for about 15 miles or until normal operating temperatures are reached.
4. Park the vehicle over clean paper or cardboard.
5. Shut the engine off and look for fluid spots on the paper.
6. Make the necessary repairs.

POWDER METHOD
1. Thoroughly clean the suspected leak area with solvent.
2. Apply an aerosol type powder (foot powder) to the suspected leak area.
3. Operate the vehicle for about 15 miles or until normal operating temperatures are reached.
4. Shut the engine off.
5. Inspect the suspected leak area and trace the leak path through the powder to find the source.
6. Make the necessary repairs.

DYE AND BLACK LIGHT METHOD
1. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for the amount of dye to be used.
2. Find the leak with a black light.
3. Make the necessary repairs.