Converter Housing Fluid Leak Diagnosis

Overview
When diagnosing converter housing fluid leaks, two items must be established before repair.
1. Verify that a leak condition actually exists.
2. Determined the true source of the leak.

Fig. 9:

Some suspected converter housing fluid leaks may not be leaks at all. They may only be the result of residual fluid in the converter housing, or excess fluid spilled during factory fill or fill after repair. Converter housing leaks have several potential sources. Through careful observation, a leak source can be identified before removing the transmission for repair. Pump seal leaks tend to move along the drive hub and onto the rear of the converter. Pump O-ring or pump body leaks follow the same path as a seal leak (Fig. 9). Pump vent or pump attaching bolt leaks are generally deposited on the inside of the converter housing and not on the converter itself. Pump seal or gasket leaks usually travel down the inside of the converter housing. Front band lever pin plug leaks are generally deposited on the housing and not on the converter.

Torque Converter Leak Points
Possible sources of converter leaks are:

Fig. 10:

1. Leaks at the weld joint around the outside diameter weld (Fig. 10).