I have a 1999 Dodge Dakota 3.9. I just noticed a transmission fluid leak/drip in the trans line going to the top of the radiator. The leak is where the hose is crimped to the steel line (at the bottom of the hose). Do I have to replace the whole hard line and hose or is there an easier way to fix like with a clamp or compression fitting?
Thanks.

 

I'm gonna say that you have to replace the whole thing. You can try to monkey around with it but your dealing with a lot of pressure there, and most clamps will not take the force.

 

You can try tightening i believe it's just a nut that screws on the end. The whole line is that dumb metal so if you replace I would use a soft line will make your life easier. Also, you can wire up however you want than too. I am not sure where it is on these trannys but there is a protector in one of the lines to stop gunk from coming into the transmissions most of these cause problems than save. Buy a by pass cooler if you do this. LPD sells a good one, every good tranny shop recommends one.

Chris

 

There's no nut on this part of the line. The hard line ends with a wide, 1 1/4" or 1 1/2" long piece of metal that is crimped to the end of the hose. The hose is about 12 inches long (or so) then converts back to a hard line that is screwed into the radiator. The leak is a the crimp.
Any other thoughts/ideas?

 

i would just replace metal will just fatigue.