Transmission Fluid Cooler Leaks at Radiator
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Transmission fluid may leak between the radiator in-tank transmission fluid cooler and the transmission fluid cooler fitting (not the transmission fluid cooler tube into the fitting), which may result in a residue of transmission fluid on the radiator tank around the transmission fluid cooler fitting. Insufficient thread sealer on the transmission fluid cooler fitting may cause this.
- Clean the area around the transmission fluid cooler fittings.
- Verify that transmission fluid is leaking between the transmission fluid cooler tube fitting into the transmission fluid cooler (not the transmission fluid cooler and the transmission fluid cooler fitting).
- Inspect the rubber transmission fluid cooler hose and the transmission fluid cooler fitting clamp. If the leak is at the transmission fluid cooler fitting, install a new transmission fluid cooler fitting clamp or the transmission fluid cooler hose.
- If the leak is at the transmission cooler fittings, install a new radiator. Refer to ENGINE COOLING article.
CAUTION:
Oil-based solvents and cleaners should not be used when cleaning the radiator. Oil-based solvents and cleaners can damage O-ring seals.