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I have 96 F-150 4X4 5.0L automatic that I just changed the fluid and filter in. I only drained what was in the pan. I added 6 quarts of fluid and a bottle of Lucas transmission conditioner/sealant. As I warmed up the truck I noticed a puddle under it. I quickly checked and it was coming down from where the lines run up and dripping off the catalytic converter heat shield. I keep it running till it was up to temp and the leak stopped for a while then resumed at a slower drip. During this time I was checking the dip stick and it was clean when cold, clean while warming and at temp it was still clean. The amount that leaked out had to been only a few ounces like maybe 4 give or take 2. Given what I just described what could be the issue/problem and what are some actions I should look into as to how to remedy the issue? Basically what should be my next course of action?
He did drop the pan, it's the only way to get to the filter.
OP, did you maybe bend or damage one of the cooler lines when you were under there working? Are you sure it wasn't coming from the pan gasket? You say it was dripping off the cat so I'm just guessing that maybe you didn't get a clear look at the source of the leak. If it is your cooler lines, just check them out and make sure you didn't bend one up, make sure the fittings are tight, etc.
I did drop the pan and I am hoping maybe it is the lines and not a rear seal. I didn't get a good look cause the truck was running and the exhaust was getting pretty hot so I didn't poke around much. Both lines look more like old dead twigs then metal lines. I was trying to be as careful as I could when changing the fluid. Also these lines did get bumped around when I changed out my core support. Just now I remembered noticing that the lines and the rear of the trans was wet. How hard are the lines to get at where they attach to the transmission?
I am not a mechanic by no means just your average man, please bear with me. I got concerned about the transmission because right before I changed the fluid it was hesitating some and the fluid looked more like used motor oil with no red coloration at all. So I am starting with the easiest fix trying to eliminate the possibility of a burnt up transmission. Would anyone know how much fluid does the transmission hold and about how much the transmission cooler would hold? I'm thinking that might be why it seems low.
Oh well if your lines are that rotted than yeah they're probably leaking. I always forget about that thing called rust... don't have that problem round here much!
Similar question: When replacing the transmission oil lines on a E4OD does any one know the size off hand? Also the size of the threaded adapters that screw into the transmission casing.
One of my lines has been rubbing up against the Oxygen Sensor and is starting to wear thin. Going to need to run a new line eventually.