Fast ATF leak

bluebertone · Post by **bluebertone** » 16 Dec 2019, 09:34

2001 Volvo xc70, 130k, transmission rebuilt (previous owner) around 90k. Sudden fast leak of fluid, seeing mostly on ground passenger side near tire and from the top just under and to the right of power steering fluid reservoir (not using ATF in power steering). Still have a tiny bit of fluid on the dipstick. I have very little experience w transmission issues, especially on these cars (surprise!) so, what should I investigate first?:) it’s unfortunately 20 miles from the nearest Volvo mechanic, so I’m also trying to determine if it will eventually need a tow. Thanks, everyone!

highmiles · Post by **highmiles** » 16 Dec 2019, 14:20

That seems like an odd place for a transmission to leak to as the transmission itself is on the driver's side. If it is the transmission, the two seals that can be replaced without removing the transmission are the left and right driveshaft seal. The other seal would be the input shaft seal, that would require pulling the transmission, it is located behind the torque converter. I have had a major leak there before and would find a huge puddle right below the transmission even after driving around the block.
I would check and top up all the fluids and then keep an eye on them.

bluebertone · Post by **bluebertone** » 16 Dec 2019, 16:13

Thank you!

Post by **E Showell** » 17 Dec 2019, 04:26

ATF passes through the radiator to be cooled. You could have a hose clamp or radiator failure. I'd check every connection to the radiator and look at the radiator for cracks.

bluebertone · Post by **bluebertone** » 17 Dec 2019, 08:04

Yes, this makes sense- thank you!

Post by **E Showell** » 17 Dec 2019, 10:11

Or hose failure, of course. If your radiator is the original, it may be past its "sell by" date.

Post by **oragex** » 17 Dec 2019, 10:14

Have you lifted the power steering reservoir to see ? Common leaks at the hoses. If you also lift the coolant reservoir (these are usually stuck together), disconnect first the electrical plug for the coolant reservoir level sensor (don't pull on the wire)

bluebertone · Post by **bluebertone** » 17 Dec 2019, 10:43

I'm always nervous I'm going to break that plastic piece but I'll lift the power steering reservoir this afternoon when this damn rain stops:) will let you know what I figure out- thanks so much!

Post by **oragex** » 17 Dec 2019, 12:01

Some simply break off the small upper plastic hook already, makes it easier to remove - it's also secured with two 'sliding' tabs at the bottom. If the hoses leak, I rather cut off the last inch of the hose, then tighten back (need to empty the reservoir). The cap may also be leaking

If the reservoir is fine, may look at the p/s hardline that goes near the right wheel along the subframe, where the engine mount sits: this line may get crushed and cracked at this point (there's also an EGR line passing by)