Leakage Inspection
Leakage Inspection
CAUTION: Do not try to stop the transmission fluid leak by increasing the torque beyond specifications. This may cause damage to the case threads.
Check the transmission fluid filler tube connection at the transmission case. If leakage is found here, install a new grommet.
Check the transmission fluid tubes and fittings between the transmission and the transmission fluid cooler in the radiator tank for looseness, wear or damage. If leakage cannot be stopped by tightening a transmission fluid tube nut, install new parts.
When transmission fluid is found leaking between the case and cooler tube fitting, check for a missing or damaged O-ring, then tighten the fitting to maximum specification.
If the leak continues, install a new transmission fluid cooler tube fitting and tighten to specification.
The same procedure should be followed for transmission fluid leaks between the in-tank radiator transmission fluid cooler and the transmission fluid cooler tube 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 tubes for the cooler fittings and applying no more than 345 kPa (50 psi) air pressure to the fittings. Remove the radiator cap to relieve the pressure buildup at the exterior of the transmission fluid cooler tank. If the cooler is leaking and/or will not hold pressure, install a new transmission fluid cooler.
If leakage is found at the selector lever, install a new seal.
If leakage is found at the transmission internal harness connector, install a new O-ring.
External Sealing:
Fluid Leakage In Torque Converter Area
Leakage at the front of the transmission, as evidenced by transmission fluid around the torque converter housing part of the case, may have several sources. By careful observation, it is possible in many instances to pinpoint the source of the leak before removing the transmission from the vehicle.
The paths, which the transmission fluid takes to reach the bottom of the torque converter housing part of the case, are shown in the illustration. The 5 numbers in the illustration correspond with the 5 flow path steps.
Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 3:
Leak Check Test With a Black Light
Dye-Lite ATF/Power Steering Fluid Leak Detection Dye 164-R3701 or equivalent (specifically formulated for ATF) is used to detect a transmission fluid leak.
1. Add dye to the transmission fluid. Use 30 mL (1 oz) of dye solution for every 3.8L (4 qt) of transmission fluid.
2. Start and run the engine until the transaxle/transmission reaches its normal operating temperature. Observe the back of the cylinder block and top of the torque converter housing for evidence of transmission fluid leakage. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and run the engine at fast idle, then at engine idle, occasionally shifting to the DRIVE and REVERSE ranges to increase pressure within the transaxle/transmission. Observe the front of the flexplate, back of the cylinder block (in as far as possible), inside the torque converter housing and the entire case until transmission fluid leakage is evident and the probable source of leakage can be determined.