I have been reading up on the front transmission to torque converter seal issues on the 4r100 transmissions. I believe one of my 1999 F-350s has this leaky seal. I have now removed the transmission. I went to NAPA today to buy the updated seal, but on all the seals they have, the seal material is either grey or blue, which I understand is the older (non-updated) silicone. From the few posts I have found that specifically mention the seal color (mostly on this site, but also on a couple others) I understand that the Viton seal is black. I would hate to get the wrong seal and put it into the transmission, put the transmission back in the truck, and find out it is still leaking, or starts leaking again some time soon!

OTOH, I can't believe that there are still the older type silicone seals out there available. After all this time, I would assume that all seals available would be made out of the updated Viton material. Or am I wrong in assuming this? Furthermore, a generic google image search for "Viton seals" shows plenty of blue Viton seals, further confusing the matter. And of course, NAPA (and also Advance Auto Parts) near me don't have very much (if any) information about the seal and what it is made out of (just the usual, "What is that out of? What engine?... ).

Can the color really determine whether the seal is made of Viton or not?

Maybe I should just order a known Viton seal from one of the online sources? The problem with my local auto parts stores is that they cannot definitively tell me if it is Viton or not. I haven't tried my local Ford stealership, they are closed today (Sunday) but maybe I will try that tomorrow?

Anyone who has replaced their seal, or has had it replaced by someone or at a shop, but saw the new seal before it was put in, please chime in!

 

No one has any input on this?

Mod(s), should this maybe be moved to the Transmission Forum (I just noticed there was such a forum)?

 

Sonnex trans parts has a nice write up on the front seal leaking problem, i cant help with the color thing but someone should post soon with the correct part for you

 

Look for the Stellar 36151V
.