400 L4-156 2.6L (1982)
Automatic Transmission Dipstick - Dipstick Tube: Customer Interest
A/T Dipstick - Fluid Leak at Vent
Models
All 1978-1983 Domestic Front Wheel Drive Vehicles Equipped With Automatic Transaxle
Subject
Oil "Leaking" Out the Transaxle Dipstick Handle
Index
TRANSMISSION
Date
October 15, 1984
No.
21-04-84
P-4516-C
SYMPTOM/CONDITION
Oil leakage at dipstick vent.
DIAGNOSIS
Inspect for presence of fluid at the dipstick handle.
PARTS REQUIRED
1 - Dipstick Assembly
PN 4348625 (1978-1983 Models
W/0 Common Sump)
1 - Dipstick Assembly
PN 4295947 (1983 Models With
Common Sump)
REPAIR PROCEDURE
The dipstick assembly on front wheel drive automatic transaxles is of a hollow tube-type design. The hollow handle allows air to be vented into and out
of the transaxle as needed due to temperature changes.
The dipstick handle is the only air vent on 1983 transaxles (common sump with the differential) and should never be plugged. Plugging the vent could
result in either oil being forced past the external seals or the dipstick popping out of the transaxle, resulting in leak complaints.
If oil is "leaking" out of the dipstick handle (vent), the usual cause is either too much oil in the transaxle and/or long-term (2-3 days) downhill parking on
a steep incline (either on road surface or during vehicle shipment). Oil level must be verified at normal operating temperature (refer to service manual).
A revised dipstick with a higher venting point to help reduce oil leakage at the dipstick is available. Install the dipstick as indicated in the above "Parts
Required" section.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty
TIME ALLOWANCE:
Labor Operation No.
21-12-01-90....................... 0.2 Hrs.
FAILURE CODE:
65 - Leaks
