Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Methods For Locating Leaks

You can generally locate and repair the cause of most external leaks with the transmission in the vehicle. Use any one of the following methods for locating leaks:

General Method
1. Verify that the leak is transmission fluid.
2. Thoroughly clean the suspected leak area.
3. Operate 'the vehicle for about 15 miles or until you have reached normal operating temperatures.
4. Park the vehicle over clean paper or cardboard.
5. Shut the engine off and look for fluid spots on the paper.
6. Make necessary repairs.

Powder Method
1. Thoroughly clean the suspected leak area with a solvent.
2. Apply an aerosol type powder such as foot powder to the suspected leak area.
3. Operate the vehicle for about 15 miles or until you have reached normal operating temperatures.
4. Shut the engine off.
5. Inspect the suspected leak area and trace the leak path through the powder to find the source.
6. Make necessary repairs.

Dye and Black Light Method
1. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for the amount of dye to be used.
2. Find the leak with a black light.
3. Make the necessary repairs.