Transmission fluid lead

TSHAFER

MEMBER
1998 DODGE VAN
2WD
AUTOMATIC
101,500 MILES

I have a 1998 Dodge B1500 Van that was leaking transmission fluid excessively, it has 101,000 miles, but the transmission was completely rebuilt at 62,000 miles. I added transmission fluid periodically to make certain that it didn't run too low. I finally took it to a nationally known transmission shop and they insisted that there was internal damage to the automatic transmission and that's why it was leaking fluid. I never experienced any type of "hiccup" in the transmission and I'm a little suspicious that the entire transmission was deemed "bad", when this might have been as simple as a bad seal around the transmission housing. Is the transmission shop's explanation plausible. Given the fact that there were no noticable issues with the transmission?

Saturday, February 19th, 2011 AT 3:33 PM

2 Replies

QUICKDART

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I would have to say that the shop is trying get a rebuild job, when it's likely a seal leaking or gasket. You'll need to determine where on the trans the leak is the worsted. You normally have three seals and the pan gasket. At 62,000 mile you should change the fluid and filter. If it's the gasket this should fix the leak. They should be able tell where the leak is coming from at the very least.

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Saturday, February 19th, 2011 AT 4:59 PM

CUP1981

MEMBER
133 POSTS

My first advice is to get a second opinion. I have seen many transmission shops just go for the rebuild every time, then they fix the leak in the process. If it is something like a front pump seal leak then it may be worthwhile to have it rebuilt, as you are already halfway there. So, first get a second opinion and only fix what is needed to repair your problem.

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Friday, March 11th, 2011 AT 5:07 PM