6 Speed Automatic Transmission

Leakage Inspection

CAUTION: Do not try to stop the fluid leak by increasing the torque beyond specifications. This may cause damage to the case threads.

Use the External Fluid Leaks chart to inspect and correct any external transmission fluid leaks.

External Fluid Leaks:

External Sealing
The transaxle has these parts to prevent external fluid leakage:
^ Sealer
^ Lip type seals
^ O-ring seals
^ Seal rings
^ Seal grommets
^ Thread sealant

External Sealing:

Fluid Leakage in Torque Converter Area

Leakage at the front of transmission, as evidenced by 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 leak before removing the transmission from the vehicle. The paths which the fluid takes to reach the bottom of the torque converter housing are shown in the illustration. The 5 numbers in the illustration correspond with the 5 flow path steps.

Leak Check Test
Fluid soluble aniline or fluorescent dyes premixed at the rate of 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) of dye powder to 0.235L (1/2 pint) of transmission fluid have proved helpful in locating the source of fluid leakage. Such dyes may be used to determine whether an engine oil or transmission fluid leak is present, or if the fluid in the fluid cooler leaks into the engine cooling system. A ultraviolet light must be used to detect the fluorescent dye solution.
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to Maintenance/Service and Repair.
2. Loosen the fluid drain plug and allow the fluid to drip. Note the color of the fluid.
3. Tighten the drain plug to 7 Nm (62 inch lbs.).
4. Using a suitable nonflammable solvent, clean off any fluid from the top and bottom of the torque converter housing, flexplate, case and rear face of the engine and oil pan. Blow dry with compressed air.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Start and run the engine until the transaxle reaches its normal operating temperature.
7. Observe the back of the cylinder block and the top of the torque converter housing for evidence of fluid leakage. Run the engine at fast idle, then at engine idle, occasionally shifting to the DRIVE and REVERSE ranges.
8. Observe the front of the flexplate, back of the cylinder block, inside the torque converter housing and front of the case for evidence of fluid leakage.
9. Continue to run the engine until fluid leakage is evident and the probable source of leakage can be determined.
10. Lower the vehicle.
11. Turn the vehicle OFF.
12. If any leaks are evident, repair as necessary.