Find the Cause of the Leak

Pinpoint the leak and trace the leak back to the source. You must determine the cause of the leak in order to repair the leak properly. For example, if you replace a gasket, but the sealing flange is bent, the new gasket will not repair the leak. You must also repair the bent flange. Before you attempt to repair a leak, check for the following conditions, and make repairs as necessary:

Gaskets

• Fluid level/pressure is too high
• Plugged vent or drain-back holes
• Improperly tightened fasteners
• Dirty or damaged threads
• Warped flanges or sealing surface
• Scratches, burrs, or other damage to the sealing surface
• Damaged or worn gasket
• Cracking or porosity of the component
• Improper sealant used, where applicable
• Incorrect gasket

Seals

• Fluid level/pressure is too high
• Plugged vent or drain-back holes
• Damaged seal bore
• Damaged or worn seal
• Improper installation
• Cracks in component
• Manual or output shaft surface is scratched, nicked, or damaged
• Loose or worn bearing causing excess seal wear