Automatic Transmission Question

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Feb 2, 2004 | 10:39 PM

87Vert

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Joined: Dec 2002

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From: Everett WA

Automatic Transmission Question

I've got an 87 Automatic with about 88K miles. I have a small transmision leak that appears to be dripping off the forward right corner of the pan. There also appears to be some dripping down one of the cooling pipes onto the right pre-cat. Based on reading the GM service manual, I think the leak could be a loose connection on one of the oil cooling lines. Is it possible to get at the nuts on these cooling lines to tighten them without dropping the transmission? If not, what kind of bill am I looking at? I want to get the leak repaired as economically as possible since I just bought a C5 Friday night and will be selling the 87. Thanks for your help!

Feb 2, 2004 | 10:53 PM

NightRyder

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From: Everett WA

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (87Vert)

:D Sorry, just saw that you live the same place as me.

Sorry again :D :crazy: , cuz I don't have an auto, so I don't know about those cooling lines. I would think that you could fix it yourself with a bit of time.

I'm sure someone with an auto, that has messed around with those lines, will pop in and tell whats what.

[Modified by NightRyder, 7:55 PM 2/2/2004]

Feb 3, 2004 | 12:12 AM

BowTieBlood

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From: Texas

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (87Vert)

The pan is easy. If you don't want to do it, take it to a shop, takes a whole 20 minutes seems like, I'm sure it's a little longer than that, but easy as hell.

Feb 3, 2004 | 12:22 PM

CFI-EFI

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From: The Top of Utah

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (87Vert)

Quote:

Is it possible to get at the nuts on these cooling lines to tighten them without dropping the transmission?

Since those lines have to be disconnected to drop the trans, YES. Although there ARE other ways of dealing with those lines on an R&R. Just put a wrench (preferably a fitting wrench) on those fittings, and give them a twist. Also, try snugging up ALL the pan bolts. You are likely to have a quick, cheap, fix. Good luck, and...

RACE ON!!!

Feb 4, 2004 | 05:07 PM

Probuilt

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From: Calimesa California

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (CFI-EFI)

First, wipe off the areas above the pan, then go back in about an hour and take a white paper towel and wipe above the pan till you find exactly where the leak is, now you will know what to address. Rarely do pan gaskets leak, when installed correctly.

Feb 4, 2004 | 05:25 PM

okinawa86vette

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From: Las Cruces NM

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (CFI-EFI)

:iagree:

You should be able to tighten the lines w/o dropping the tranny. I had to do it on my '86.

Chris

Feb 4, 2004 | 07:41 PM

autotech

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From: Midland Texas

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (okinawa86vette)

On the right front and just on top is where your trans. dipstick tube goes into the transmission. It is very common for the gromet, (about 5 bucks), to leak. You will have to pull (1) bell housing bolt to pull the tube up enough to replace it. Replace this first then drive awile and recheck. Any fluid will blow around alot making it appear to be leaking elsewhere. When the trany. is full and not running, the fluid level is slightly above the gromet and this is the first place to leak. Good Luck. :thumbs:

Feb 4, 2004 | 07:49 PM

CFI-EFI

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From: The Top of Utah

Re: Automatic Transmission Question (autotech)

Quote:

Replace this first then drive awile and recheck.

I agree this is a likely cause. But it is a lot of work compared to tugging on a couple of fitting wrenches, and snugging the pan bolts. I would start with tightening things up and working on from there, if necessary.

RACE ON!!!