Honda: Honda oil leak?, Honda ATF-Z1 transmission fluid leak

Question
1995 Honda Accord EX. VTEC engine. AT, PS, AC. 165,000 plus miles.  An fluid leak has developed which is beginning to be more than is acceptable even for an older vehicle.  It is coming from the split between the transmission and the shift control cable retainer cover.  It seems the cover is nothing more than that, a cover, with no seals to retain fluid.  The fluid appears to be transmission fluid.  My two questions.  Can the cover be removed, with relative ease and access source of leak?  Is there an after market shop manual you recommend? One more question.  Any suggestions as to source of leak which would save me the work and necessitate seeking professional maintenance?  I'm a back yard mechanic with somewhat more than general knowledge of automotive systems, but not many speciality tools.  Any guidance in this area of the Honda unknown would be appreciated. Thanks, Harry

Answer
Harry,
The cover you are describing comes apart with just a few bolts. Behind that cover is a small seal at the transmission shift cable. This seal is at the transmission shift shaft. It will leak automatic transmission fluid. No special tools are required for this repair. If you remove that cover and this seal is not the culprit, it's most likely the transmission front seal. Again, no special tools required. I'd spring for the service manual that is written for Honda by Helm.