Hi all,

I have read through a number of trans/trans fluid threads here, and am still uncertain as to my current "condition" and how to proceed with it. The next couple paragraphs might suggest I'm an idiot, which may not be too far from the truth.

Anyway, I have a leaky pan gasket and have been monitoring fluid level. I follow correct procedure, check in Neutral, but I find these dipsticks insanely hard to read. So it looked to me like fluid level was in the safe zone, and the truck drove just fine.

Yesterday, at the end of a 60mi highway drive, the engine light came on, trans started shifting late, and takeoffs from full stops were VERY sluggish. I suspected low trans fluid, error codes were P1757 & P1762. Checked fluid and indeed, it was definitely low this time. Added 1qt fluid to get back to where it looks like it's in the safe zone. Had to make 60mi return drive (no choice) with no problems. Engine light is still on, but smoothly shifts at correct speeds. Takeoffs from full stops are still sluggish, and transmission hums when taking off (sounds somewhat like pump cavitation).

So, any thoughts? I suspect the fluid level is still low (?). Hopefully I haven't ruined my transmission.

Thanks!

 

Most common cause of leak at pan is overtightening of pan bolts. 13 ft lbs. only.

It is hard to read level....fluid is pretty light colored. Always check front an back of stick. Sometimes helps.

P1757 - Gov Press above 3 PSI in gear with 0 MPH

P1762 - Governor Press Sens Volts Too Hi

You may need to check/clean the gov pressure sensor. I would replace it and the gov solenoid (Borg Warner) if it were mine.

Disconnect battery ground before doing this.....

 

Thanks gdstock. I'll recheck fluid level tomorrow...

Can I retorque the pan bolts or is overtightening a terminal condition that requires a new gasket?

 

If you have rubber gasket that is undamaged, just drop pan and check gasket and reuse if it is good. May go ahead and change filter. It will come with a new gasket.

 

I purchased the truck at 80k miles, and it looked like it was still on original fluid and filter...so I have changed fluid and filter twice to try and flush out the old stuff. I didn't have a torque wrench 2nd time around so used the snug tight + 1/4 turn rule. Must have overtightened. Probably best to do a full service since it will be pulled apart anyways. This time I'll use the proper tool!

 

if you take it back off, look at your transmission pan lip. lay a straight edge across it and look for any dimples or deformity where the bolt holes are. if so, hammer them back flat.

also consider a premium gasket from mopar/dealer. they're rubber and supposedly reusable. another alternative is Felpro TOS18583 for about $6.

i've also had decent luck with Advance FK317 with a rubber gasket. i've never had any good luck with a cork gasket.

 

+ 1 on the dippled pan , never learned this as a kid, and always fought leaks.

 

I would also suggest installing a remote trans filter in place of the check valve in the trans cooler line. Plenty of threads on here about the check valve.

Also, install a drain plug in the pan while you have it off. Makes it much less messy when you have to drop the pan.

 

Thanks for the input guys. I'll probably drop the pan this weekend, check the pan lip, and install a new gasket. Do the rubber gaskets need to be prepped with a light coat of lubricant prior to install?

 

Yeah run a bead, 1/8 or smaller of rtv on both sides of the gasket. Just insurance.