Fluid Leakage - Torque Converter Housing Area: Notes

When diagnosing converter housing fluid leaks, three actions must be taken before repair:

1. Verify proper transmission fluid level.
2. Verify that the leak originates from the converter housing area and is transmission fluid.
3. Determine the true source of the leak.

   Fluid leakage at or around the torque converter area may originate from an engine oil leak ( Fig 1). The area should be examined closely. Factory fill fluid is red and, therefore, can be distinguished from engine oil.

   Fig 1: Identifying Converter Housing Leakage Paths

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

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 ( Fig 1). Pump o-ring or pump body leaks follow the same path as a seal leak. 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 ( Fig 1).