atf on ice

[kwrank]

my auto trans has gone from a drip here and there to a significant puddle, particularly after topping it back up. pretty obvious the leakage is from the area where the vertical shaft that the shifter and tv cable attach to comes through the case. i sort of remember how this assembly goes together, but have no idea what sort of seal is in there, or how it might be to fix with trans in truck. not ridiculously cold outside, but conditions aren't the best. any guidance would be appreciated...

[txs]

it's a regular seal molded to a metal stamped ring, just like the front seal only smaller, can be a real pain to install in place, you could drop the crossmember and let the tranny and engine tilt down for more access.

[thrashingcows]

I have done this seal a few times on the old 727's. Should be the same procedure I think even on a 518.

You need to remove all the linkage from the offending shaft. Then drain the fluid and drop the pan. After it's mostly done dripping clean undo the valve body and let it drop and spin it out of the way. It will take the leaking shaft with it. I have always left the park rod hooked up.

Then you just use a screwdriver, or punch and tap the old seal up and out. Installing the new one can be a bit trickier though. I usually use a big C clamp and a few washers and maybe a socket. Depends on the internal casting on the case. Start the seal as best you can with your fingers, then install the C clamp and hardware and tighten it up. This will press the new seal down into place.

Here a pic from one I did long ago...Think this was in an 87 D250 truck of mine.

[kwrank]

well,,,i was hoping for just an o-ring or two on that shaft, but i can manage this, have a wide assortment of c-clamps...awesome real world advice, with photo! many thanks gentlemen!

[draginmopars]

if you can't get a C-clamp in there

I bolt/nut and a few body washers will work to pull the seal into place

( on cars it's real tight
between the floor and trans)