W126 common tranny leak areas?
 

On my 85 380SE, I have had a bit of a tranny "seep." After 8 months of driving I noticed some erratic behavior, so I checked the level and it was low. So I filled it up, about 3/4 quart, and all is well.

With the cold weather, I have been idling the car for about 5 or 10 minutes before getting in (to generate heat). I now notice a very small seep spot on my driveway. Either the seep is getting worse, or sitting in one spot allow the seep to accumulate. Either way, it needs to be fixed. When I have a free moment I'd like to crawl under there to figure out where it's coming from.

Can anyone tell me what the common tranny leak areas are so I know where to look?

TIA

Usually the front seal on the pump is the issue. The cooler lines can leak as well as the o-ring on the case from the dipstick.

And letting the vehicle idle for that long doesn't really help, I used to but now I just start it up and let the RPMs calm down a bit... then just drive very slow with minimal throttle out of the neighborhood.

You want all fluids warmed up, not just the coolant.

Thanks for the tips. I will crawl around eventually but hope it's not the front seal on the pump. Tranny has to come out for that, right?

As for the warming up, I was doing it on the days when it was very cold outside and my kids complain that it's freezing. Letting it idle with the heater on low actually does help. When we get in, it's not as chilly.

trans leak
 

i was losing a lot of fluid and it was the cooler lines. i replaced them and it is good to go! the lines are about $20 each new so it isn't too bad. email me if you want and i'll give you the info.
gregg

mightyhogweed@comcast.net

If I find out that's my problem, I'll get in touch.

Thanks!

I am not sure.... I did not know that tranny leaks were an issue on these cars. I have 268K and no leaks at all (save for the PS seal that blew out :D). None from the engine or tranny that is- at least not yet... knock on woodgrain. ;) It probably will though... just give it time. :D I do however have a harsh engagement when I shift into reverse when the engine is warm/hot. It slams into reverse. :rolleyes:

Good luck. Hopefully it is a simple repair.