turtle96

I have a 1996 convertible Collector Edition LT1 auto that is leaking transmission fluid. Hoping someone can help confirm my suspicions about where it is coming from. It is very difficult to get decent pics but I have attached some for reference. Basically, fluid is dripping off of the convertible X brace, pretty much right in the center. There is so much going on in this area with the brace, exhaust, brace beam, etc. that it is really hard to see the actual source.

pic 1 -

pic 1 - looking from rear to front. Hard to see but fluid has accumulated on the edge of the rail of the X brace, right where the exhaust pipes enter the resonator.

pic 2 - more of a direct view from the bottom. Seems to be coming from right between the pipes.

pic 3 - looking right between the pipes entering the resonator. You can see where the prop (drive) shaft enters the transmission. Front of the car is to the left. Trans is oily but shaft is not.

pic 4 - near mid exhaust hanger

pic 5 - same as pic 4 just zoomed out some

FSM pic


Anyway, before I pull the X brace, exhaust, etc. hoping to get some opinions. Anyone have thoughts about where this is coming from?

My opinion is - drum roll - rear tail housing seal #34 in the FSM pic.

TIA!

Kevova

X brace is a large obstruction. Get break cleaner and clean the hell of the transmission. Rear seal normally leaves a stripe as the fluid is slung out. Then spray foot powder or something similar around areas where gaskets or seal are. Drive a few miles and check for evidence of leak.

turtle96

Would you be afraid to drive the car without the X brace for that test?

Kevova

No. However I would avoid lousy roads and RR crossings just because there will be some flexing. You will also want car sitting like it would on the street when re-installing. Snug all the bolts then drive maybe 100 ft. On a level surface back off all 16 bolts 1 turn. Retorque all bolts.

turtle96

Just an FYI for anyone looking...

Finally had time to pull the X brace and exhaust, and clean up the mess under my car. I found the source of the leak. It is leaking at the speed sensor, so I assume the o-ring is bad. I ordered one from my local dealer, $3. While I am messing around down there I will change the trans fluid and filter.

I added some pics. This is an easier fix than the case extension seal would have been. No need to pull drive shaft. I might have even been able to do it with the exhaust in place but either way for me it needed to come off so I could clean things up.

383vett

Sometimes the speed sensors leak through the terminals. If so, it's toast. Hopefully it is the o-ring.