Ok, one of the other problems I have had with the van lately has been a slow transmission fluid leak (I have a 1993 3L Auto). I have taken it to the mechanic before, and he cannot find the leak. It also does not leave puddles on the driveway. This leads me to think it only does it under load, as it does go through a bottle of fluid every other week. Does anyone have any suggestions as to where leaks commonly occur on this transmission?

 

If there are no outward signs of leakage, the fluid may be leaking into the radiator, as the transmission cooling lines are routed through there.

 

It could also be leaking through the vacuum modulator. Pull the vacuum line and look for fluid in it.

 

I don't think it's the radiator, I recently changed out my coolant and it looked quite green (I would assume it would be discolored by the fluid, correct me if I'm wrong). Where is the vacuum modulator? Pictures would be great.

Thanks for your help!

 

Unfortunately, I can't supply pictures. The vacuum diaphragm/modulator is located on the right side of the transmission. The easiest way to locate it would be to trace the vacuum line back to the transmission.

 

> through the vacuum modulator

I did not know the A4LD in an Aerostar had one ...

If you have a slow leak that does not puddle, crawl under the van and make sure all the bolts from the engine / tranmission / transfer case are there and tight. Some of them are very hard to see and get to, but, its worth the effort. If I remember correctly, they are a 15 mm socket.