Leakage Inspection
Leakage InspectionSpecial Tool(s):
Material:
Leak Check Test With A Black Light
WARNING: If equipped with fire suppression system, refer to Fire Suppression System for Important Safety Warnings.
Automatic Transmission/Power Steering Dye 164-R3701 or equivalent (specifically formulated for ATF) is used to detect a transmission fluid leak.
1. Add Automatic Transmission/Power Steering Dye to the transmission fluid. Use one 30.0 mL (1 oz) of dye solution for every 3.8L (4 qt) of transmission fluid.
2. Start and run the engine until the transaxle reaches its normal operating temperature. Observe the back of the cylinder block and top of the torque converter housing for evidence of 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. 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 fluid leakage is evident and the probable source of leakage can be determined.
External Fluid Leaks:
External Sealing
CAUTION: Do not try to stop a fluid leak by increasing the torque beyond specifications. This may cause damage to the transmission case threads.
The transmission has the following parts to prevent external fluid leakage:
^ Gaskets
^ Lip-type seals
^ O-ring seals
^ Seal rings
^ Seal grommets
^ Seal washers
^ Thread sealant
External Sealing:
Fluid Leakage in Torque Converter Area
Leakage at the front of the 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 the leak before removing the transmission from the vehicle.
The paths which the 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.
