External Sealing

NOTE: Fluid from other external sources can collect between the case and pan rail and give the appearance of a transmission pan gasket leak. If fluid is present, check the following positions as outlined.

Check the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), output shaft speed sensor, and the connector at the transmission. Replace the rubber seal, if necessary.

Check for leakage at the transmission pan gasket.

If leakage is found at the wiring connector bulkhead assembly, replace the O-ring.

Leakage at the transmission pan gasket often can be stopped by tightening the retaining bolts to specifications. Do not over-tighten transmission fluid pan bolts. Only if necessary, replace the transmission pan gasket.

Check the fluid fill tube connection at the transmission case or transmission fluid pan. If leakage is found here, install a new O-ring and press the fluid fill tube to the case. The filler tube bracket should align properly and be attached to the transmission or engine.

Check the fluid lines and fittings between the transmission and the transmission fluid cooler in the radiator tank for looseness, wear or damage. When fluid is found to be leaking between the case and the fluid cooler inlet tube or fluid cooler tube, tighten the fitting to specifications.

CAUTION: Do not try to stop the fluid leak by tightening beyond specification. This may cause damage to the case threads.

If the leak continues, replace the cooler line fitting and tighten to specifications. The same procedure should be followed for fluid leaks between the transmission fluid cooler and cooler line fittings.

Check the engine coolant in the radiator. If transmission fluid is present in the coolant, the transmission fluid cooler in the radiator is probably leaking.

The transmission fluid cooler can be further checked for leaks by disconnecting the fluid cooler tube and fluid cooler inlet tube from the cooler fittings and applying 345-517 kPa (50-75 psi) air pressure to the fittings. Remove the radiator cap to relieve the pressure buildup at the exterior of the fluid cooler tank. If the transmission fluid cooler is leaking and/or will not hold pressure, the radiator cannot be serviced and must be replaced.

If leakage is found at the manual control lever, replace the manual control lever seal.

The transmission has five pipe plugs: four on the RH side of the case and one on the LH side. Inspect the plugs for leakage. Ensure they are tightened to specifications. If tightening does not stop the leak, replace the plug.

When a converter drain plug leaks, remove the drain plug with a six-point wrench. Install new drain plug. Tighten the drain plug to specifications. Fluid leakage from the converter housing may also be caused by engine oil leaking past the rear main bearing seal, or from oil galley plugs. Verify the exact cause of the leak before starting repair procedures.