QuestionQUESTION: Hello Tim,
I just started to work on my 2006 Ford Taurus SE. I am not an expert mechanic, and don't have much experience fixing cars - but I do enjoy it and have the patience to persevere.
The car is leaking transmission fluid. I believe this is because the transmission pan is no longer sealed well, due to an impact on it while driving. So I need to change the pan, gasket, and filter.
As I got ready to do this work, I noticed one part that looks like a think circular plate is somewhat loose: I can move it with my hand. There's a space between it and another part in the transmission. Also, a couple of bolts seem to be missing.
I have a short YouTube video which more clearly shows what the problem is. Please take a look at it at this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuQUU3K0DuM
Should I be concerned about this? If so, what should be done?
Thanks,
JPG.
ANSWER: Hello.
excellent video... it helps alot.
The tin sheild you refer to is simply a dust sheild to prevent larger objects, fingeers etc from getting in there and causing damage while driving down the road.
The 2 bolt holes you refer to are used in different applications of this transmission and no used on yours.
The 4 most common leaks in order of common-ness are:
1 transmission pan gasket. make sure pan rails are straight (use a straight edge, flat bench or carpenters square), use a thin bead of RTV (Right stuff is great) on pan rails and aound bolt openings (both sides of gasket) and dont overtighten pan. go every second bolt snug, then snug again until gasket just starts to bulge. check and re-tighten in 2weeks.
2. transmission cooler lines and hoses. Factory clamps weep. replace with 2 prpoper size hose clamps at each joint. check/ tighten in 2 weeks.
3.Pump seal. leak will appear between transmission and engine and often be worse with engine running. Re&re transmission to replace seals.
4. Out put seals. These generally do not leak unless damaged or if transmission vent is plugged.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank you SO MUCH for your excellent reply. You went above and beyond with your 4 additonal suggestions of what to look for if this thing keeps leaking.
I do have a simple follow-up question, and then I'll be rating the thread.
I plan to install a new filter, pan, and gasket, and I intend to seal the plastic gasket to the transmission fluid pan by using Permatex Gasket Maker (high-temp red rtv silicone), as recommended by an online resource.
The Ford package deliverables say these OEM gaskets (which looks plastic to me) are meant to be REUSED and not replaced.
Most of the references on the web for how to do this discuss a cork, rubber, or fiber gasket - not this plastic looking thing I got.
Do you think using the Permatex stuff is still a good idea?
THANKS AGAIN!
JPG.
AnswerHi, Yes a little smear of sealer is always good insurance againsst leaks.
The solid OEM gaskets are great. Just use a good brake clean or non solvent cleaner to ensure that the silicone (RTV) sticks too it. ANd dont use so much that gobs of it end up in the pan.. that is not good.
