2001 Dodge Caravan Leaking ATF after replacing drive axles

2001 DODGE CARAVAN
160,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ICKSTER
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I just finished replacing both drive axles on my Grand Caravan (3.3 Flex) and am now losing transmission fluid at a pretty good rate from around both axles.

When I was removing the original axles, I pried them out without inserting a pry bar into the transmission opening, and was careful to support the whole axle as I removed it from the transmission, making sure to not drag the splines over the seals.

I inserted the new axles after putting a bead of multi-purpose grease around the sealing surface. I made sure the snap rings engaged, and then put everything back together and topped it off with ATF+4.

The next day I noticed some fluid under the car and kept an eye on it, hoping that I'd just overfilled the tranny (or some other innocuous thing that would just fix itself -- hope springs eternal) but after a short drive I parked and noted more leakage.

This morning the level was OK, but after driving about 20 miles, the level has dropped to the fill mark.

How should I go about troubleshooting and repairing this?

Thanks.
Jul 26, 2010 at 10:15 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
F4I_GUY
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 3,302 POSTS
You need to replace both axle seals. The axle must be removed again to replace these seals.

Goodluck.
Jul 26, 2010 at 10:50 PM
Avatar
ICKSTER
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
[quote:736d19baa8="F4I_guy"]You need to replace both axle seals. The axle must be removed again to replace these seals.

Goodluck.[/quote:736d19baa8]

That's kind of what I was afraid of. Any chance you can point me in the direction of instructions for replacing the seals? That's a new one to me and not covered in any of the books I have.

Thanks.
Jul 26, 2010 at 10:59 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.