Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Repairing the Leak

Once you have found the leak point, you must next determine the source of the leak. A new gasket will not repair the leak if the sealing flange is bent. You must also repair the bent flange. Before you attempt to repair a leak, check the following conditions:

Gaskets
- The fluid level or pressure is too high
- Plugged vent or drain-back holes
- Improperly torqued fasteners or threads that are dirty or damaged Warped flanges or sealing surface Scratches, burrs, or other damage to the sealing surface A damaged or worn gasket Cracking or porosity of the component
Improper sealant
- Porosity

Seals
- The fluid level or pressure is too high
- Plugged vent or drain-back holes
- Scratches, burrs, nicks, or other damage to the seal bore
- A damaged or worn seal
- Improper installation
- Cracks in the component
- A scratched or nicked shaft surface
- A loose or worn bearing, which causes excess seal wear