Looking at a potentially costly transmission repair? If it's a gasket leak, you may be able to address the issue on your own. In this article, we will offer up a few tips to help you fix your transmission DIY.
If you have a gasket leak,
it is time to do some transmission repair. With a little guidance you may be able to fix the problem on your own. If you have any doubts, take it to a professional to avoid causing more damage.
Gasket leaks on a transmission will appear differently depending on the type of system your vehicle uses. Vehicles with automatic systems will produce red drops of fluid on the pavement underneath the vehicle. Manual systems will produce small oil spots in the same area. Smaller leaks can be addressed by way of continuing to refill the system with oil and fluids without fear of harming the system. Larger leaks require more immediate action and should be attended to before fluid runs out and the system becomes damaged permanently.
If you’re interested in a permanent solution to the issue, you can take your vehicle into a reputable repair shop for service, get the bill out of the way, and permit them to address the issue at hand. However, if you’re searching for a more cost-efficient transmission repair route, you’re in luck; In this article, we will offer up a few tips to help you address your gasket leak DIY style.
Automatic
Step 1 - Head out and purchase yourself some quality stop leak fluid. There are wide varieties to choose from, but you’ll need to find a product designed to work with your vehicle. If you’re unsure about which type is right for you, take a minute to speak with the attendant at the register. He or she should be able to look up the correct product and help you find it on the shelf.
Step 2 – Head home, park your vehicle and pop the hood. Find the fill tube for the transmission. In many vehicles, this will be located in the spot where the fluid dipstick is inserted.
Step 3 – The fill tube should be removed and the stop leak product should be poured in. If you are unsure about how much to add, take a reading of the dipstick before adding. Jot down your findings and consult your owner’s manual to find out exactly how much fluid should be in there. Subtract the reading amount from the amount that should be inside and add the figure you come up with.
Step 4 – Once you’ve finished, the dipstick should be replaced into the fill tube. Shut the hood.
Manual
Step 1 – With the aid of a jack, raise the vehicle and secure it with wheel blocks.
Step 2 – Find the transmission’s fill plug. On most vehicles, this will be roughly halfway down and to the side.
Step 3 – Use a wrench to remove the plug and move it to the side.
Step 4 – Using the same technique as outlined in the automatic section, add the necessary amount of stop leak fluid. Many of these types of products come equipped with a built in nozzle to help you access the fill hole. Add the correct amount to the transmission. If you’re having trouble, you may want to make use of a small funnel.
Step 5 – Once you’ve finished adding the fluid, screw the plug back onto the pan. Lower the vehicle and remove the blocks. If you still notice leaking, you’re likely looking at a trip to the local repair shop.
