So my low mileage (~31k) 1972 280SE 4.5 has small, but persistent transmission leak. Parked in my garage over the winter, I noticed that it soaks a cardboard piece I have put underneath every other month or so.

Last summer I attempted to put the Lucas Transmission Fix in there, but it seems to not to have worked. I also put some Lucas Transmission conditioner in it later in the fall but did not drive it much after that before leaving it parked for the winter.

My local mechanic that has worked on the car says the only solution is to remove the entire transmission to swap out all seals. Due to the labor intensive nature of this, he says cost would be around $1500-2000.

I have resigned myself to go this route in the spring. I guess I could live with the leak but it is honestly too annoying given the immaculate condition everything else about the car is in. But I wanted to check first with the forum members to see if there is anything else I can try to fix the leak?

Thanks in advance for any insights.

Given that there are 8 or 9 discrete seal points plus the pan gasket, it seems fair to begin by asking at what point or points is the leak actually occurring?

Not quite sure to be honest. It appears to have main leaking point below about where gas pedal is, with a couple of very minor leaks further up front.

The diagnosis of the point(s) of leakage should probably be entrusted to the tender mercies of an AD (Auto Doctor). That worthy can then report the results of the inspection, and suggest a course of treatment.

Frank knows his stuff. Either you can spend some money having someone familiar with the car and trans in question inspect where your leaks are, and advise you a course that may cost half as much (or less), or you'll bite the bullet and do a full reseal, and maybe not see the results you expect.

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2021 Charger Scat Pack Widebody "Sinabee"
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1972 280SE 4.5
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited "Hefe", 1992 Jeep Cherokee Laredo "Jeepy", 2006 Charger R/T "Hemi"
1999 Chrysler 300M - RIP @ 221k