Date:         Tue, 24 Sep 2013 10:25:35 +0000
Reply-To:     ROBERTANDERSON294@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bob Anderson <ROBERTANDERSON294@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Torque converter seal leaking?
In-Reply-To:  <2029945528.571370.1379974130500.JavaMail.root@sz0201a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

----- Original Message -----
From: ROBERTANDERSON294@comcast.net
To: Dennis Haynes 
Sent: Mon, 23 Sep 2013 22:08:50 -0000 (UTC)
Subject: RE: Torque converter seal leaking?

  Dennis,
Since installing the engine, 1,000 miles ago, a small amount has been leaking, but nothing to the extent experienced on Saturday.
I've only owned the van for two years and have not changed the ATF and do not know the previous owners maintenance history.
I had the engine and transmission out over last winter for a head gasket project and at that time I replaced the torque converter seal with a new seal from Van Cafe. However, this did not correct the leaking ATF problem, so I'm not sure if the new seal is also leaking or is it caused from some other problem.
I'm thinking I should start with changing the ATF and filter, (a service kit from Van Cafe) correct?
I believe the small vents you mentioned are clear, as I washed down the transmission and pushed on the vent caps and they seemed ok.
As far as the ATF level goes, when the engine is cold and not running the level is above the marks, but when I checked on Saturday while engine was hot and running, it wasn't showing so I added until it showed on the stick.
When I started the engine cold, this morning, it dripped a small puddle of ATF about a 4" circle, on cardboard placed beneath the torque converter area.
Bob

 
   ----- Original Message -----  From: Dennis Haynes   To: ROBERTANDERSON294@COMCAST.NET, vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM  Sent: Mon, 23 Sep 2013 16:01:59 -0000 (UTC)  Subject: RE: Torque converter seal leaking?    Since the leak began during an extended hill climb it is my bet that the transmission was overheating. It may also be as simple as it was overfilled or the breathers on top are covered and clogged. A very common problem on these units. If the seal did indeed fail it can be combination of a defective or incorrectly designed seal. Many aftermarket seals will not last. Also a worn collar or bushing on the torque converter will create a leak there.     Corrective actions:  Make sure the two vents on are clear. If you cannot see them they are covered under that cement like layer of stuff.  Make sure the fluid level is correct. Things warm van level, engine running, level between the marks.   If not recently serviced, change the ATF and filter. It will only take 2.75 quart to refill.   If it still leaks the tranny can be removed by itself for repairs.   Make sure the cooling system is working including the transmission oil cooler.     Dennis     -----Original Message-----  From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Bob Anderson  Sent: Monday, September 23, 2013 8:47 AM  To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM  Subject: Torque converter seal leaking?    Hello,  It appears that my '86 GL is leaking ATF from the torque converter seal even though I recently replaced this seal when I had the engine out this past winter.  Saturday I was driving in some hilly areas here, in central Massachusetts, when we came up one long steep climb I noticed lots of smoke coming out the back as well as the side vents. I pulled right over and shutoff the engine and in the engine bay found what appeared to be oil all over the place and the smoke coming from the oil on the exhaust pipes. I checked the oil dip stick and all appeared well. It appears the oil was coming out through the openings at the torque converter. We let the engine cool down and wiped off all the oil spots and then drove to the nearest gas station and topped up the ATF fluid. Checked the oil and water levels and all appeared well, so I drove the 100+ miles back home without incident, gratefully!  When we got home, I checked the engine bay and fluid levels and all looked good.  Next morning I noticed a small puddle of ATF, on the cardboard I placed, on the ground under the engine, so I'm guessing it's the seal or could it be the torque converter itself?  Also, will I need to pull the engine again to replace the seal or can the transmission be pulled alone?  Thanks,  Bob Anderson  '86 GL  Wilmington, MA