Causes of Leaking Transmission Fluid (These Culprits are Guilty as Charged!)
Posted on: 14 July 2017
The transmission fluid is what keeps your engine going. Without it, you would never be able to get power to the wheel to get the car moving. Today, transmissions come in two forms automatic and manual. Both of them require adequate transmission fluid to function well. Problems arise when you lose the fluid through leakages and failure to maintain your transmission system as recommended by the manufacturers. If you have knowledge of the common causes of transmission fluid leakages, then it should be easy for you to anticipate and troubleshoot them in good time. Here is a look at four causes of transmission fluid leakages:
Damaged Fluid Lines
Just as the name alludes, fluid lines are the channels through which the transmission fluid circulates. The fluid lines are always in contact with the transmission fluid when the vehicle is moving and when it is stationery. Damaged lines will certainly let fluid through to the ground. The lines can be damaged by debris and heat. When the vehicle is moving at high speed, debris strikes back against the underneath of the car, hitting the fluid lines in some cases. Flying debris can puncture the fluid lines and cause leakages.
Damaged Torque Convertors
Another common cause of leaking transmission is a damaged torque convertor. The convertor body can develop cracks and fissures after several years of use. To add on that, the needle bearings may also grow faulty and allow transmission fluid to seep through the system to the ground.
Seals
Seals are used to contain the transmissions fluid at various points in the system. They are used to secure the fluid lines, gasket, torque and other parts so that the fluid does not seep out of any components. The sad part, however, is that the engine and transmission all together get too hot when the car is in use. This heat is transferred through various components including the seals. They then warp and wear down, allowing the fluid to pass through.
The Pan and Gasket
The transmission also comes with a pan that holds the transmission fluid. A puncture in the pan will allow the fluid to leak through to the ground. The gasket, on the other hand, is a lining used around the pan for enhanced protection. It can fray over time and align poorly with the pan, leaving room for a leak. In such cases, you need a replacement of the gasket to keep the leaks in check.
Contact a company that offers 4 wheel drive transmissions for more information and assistance.
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