Trans issues

[240ZX34V8]

Not so much the trans itself, but I've got some problems.

I'm leaking out of the plate on the drivers side. There's no replacement gaskets. My options are either buy some blank gasket material and cut one out or use form-a-gasket. I was told by a Mini tech to use form-a-gasket. Does this sound right?

Either the PO or a shop tried removing the rear drain plug. It's semi stripped. It looks like my only option is to jack the entire front end up, remove the dog bone mounting plate, and hammer a socket in there. There's no room to grab on to it with pliers. Any tips on getting this thing out?

I'm not working on it until Sunday so hopefully I get some answers.......

BTW, I doubt the trans had ANY fluid in it since it sucked down a full qt of fluid when I added some. There was fluid all over the trans, but after cleaning it, it's only leaking out of that one part. I've got some Syncromax waiting to go in.

[SaucyMuffin]

so wait your leaking out of the rear drain plug? or out somewhere entirely different? My drain plugs are both Allen headed plugs that are almost flush mount with the trans body. You can't possibly get a socket on either of the drain plugs. Can you take a picture of it for us?

[240ZX34V8]

Originally Posted by SaucyMuffin

so wait your leaking out of the rear drain plug? or out somewhere entirely different? My drain plugs are both Allen headed plugs that are almost flush mount with the trans body. You can't possibly get a socket on either of the drain plugs. Can you take a picture of it for us?

No, two problems. One is a leak out of the plate on the drivers side, second is the drain plug is partially stripped. It's not leaking but you can't turn it.

[SaucyMuffin]

you do have two drain plugs on the transmission just to let you know one in the front and one in the rear. The only thing I could suggest to get the stuck plug out is an "easy out" which if you don't know what that is you drill into the plug and reverse thread it put a bolt in the new threads and crank the stuck plug right out. The only problem with removing the stuck plug is that the threads on the Transmission itself could be the ones that are screwed up and if they are then you wont be able to use that plug just jam another one in there and never attempt to get it back off. If you do decide to remove the plug then I would pray to God that the threads on the plug are the ones that are screwed up but chances of that are slim.

And for the first problem what plate are you talking about? The Axle seal?

[240ZX34V8]

The plate is the one on the end.


The plug that's stripped is the rear one, it's blocked from easy access by the motor mount.

[240ZX34V8]

Fixed it.

This forum has gone down hill since I was originally here in 03. Back then people would actually pitch in and know what they were talking about. I've asked about 4 questions so far and not a single one has been answered.

[SaucyMuffin]

no offence but you really do suck a supplying information after studying that picture you posted for awhile I almost declared that I still didn't of this "plate" As for the screw in the rear of the transmission let it alone unless you want to really risk damaged threads on your transmission. And I'm sorry that I was trying to help you but couldn't understand what was wrong with what little un-descriptive information you were supplying.

[Hemisfear]

I know what you mean! Sorry I couldn't help out.

[COSVT03]

JESUS PEOPLE...

The trans doesn't use gaskets, it uses permatex, all around, and seals. It's a simple question, the tranny is leaking, and he needs a fix, there are ONLY two halves & 1 Access/Inspection cover... So it's either the seals or the seal between the sections/covers. Thanks.

Use the ford stuff, much better than the crap you buy at Napa (4 bucks is the best money you'll spend, too not have to do it again)

Also, do yourself a favor and make sure to CLEAN those surfaces, with as pure of alcohol you can find before applying the new seal. And PLEASE, don’t use ANYTHING but a FLAT cheap BRAND NEW razor blade to LIGHTLY remove the old seal. (You'll probably need a box of 10-20) When it stops removing the old seal easily, switch to a new one.

I looked at the picture, and yes, that plate also uses permatex to seal. Make sure to drain the fluid.

As for the drain plug, you'll have to learn how to remove stripped screws from aluminum Use a small screw-driver/prybar, insert between plug and base, and unscrew. This little bit of tension will usualy allow it to bite and thread out. Then, you'll need to Tap out the old threads and either, install a heli coil repair coil (and seal it properly) or buy an oversized drain plug.