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Transmission leaks may lead to serious problems for your automobile. Manual transmissions are not forgiving of low fluid levels, and will malfunction within a short time when the fluid levels drop too low. The major causes of transmission leaks are loose nuts and a loose transmission pan or dried out gasket seals. Stop-leak transmission fluids may be useful for your manual transmission, as they condition and repair leaky seals. However, manual transmission fluid leaks are more often caused by loose fittings.

Instructions

Prevent Leaks Through Routine Maintenance

1

Prevent transmission fluid leaks through routine maintenance of your automobile engine. Follow the instructions in your automobile manual. Manufacturers of most engines recommend transmission fluid changes every 30,000 miles.

2

Drive your automobile for approximately a mile or around the block to warm up the transmission fluid.

3

Elevate your vehicle with a jack or put it on a ramp. Make certain the vehicle is secure before working under it.

4

Using your wrench or ratchet, remove the outer plug -- if applicable -- and then remove the transmission fluid drain plug. Drain the fluid into a plastic or metal container.

5

Clean the drain plug with a clean cloth. The transmission drain plug is magnetic so that it captures small bits of metal as the transmission gears wear. Wipe the plug thoroughly and replace after all fluid has drained out. Tighten the plug.

6

Pump new fluid into the transmission through the fill plug. This plug is usually located on the side of the transmission. Use the amount of fluid recommended by your automobile owners manual.

Stop Leaks

7

Notice the signs of transmission oil leaks: oil on the driveway, sluggish transmission, low fluid levels as determined by checking with a dip stick.

8

Perform routine maintenance when a transmission fluid leak is evident. Drain the fluid from the transmission, according to the previous steps.

9

Loosen oil pan bolts with a wrench and remove the pan. Clean the pan with soap and water and wipe dry.

10

Spread gasket sealant around the gasket ridge of the oil pan. Make certain sealant is around each bolt hole.

11

Press the gasket into place in the sealant on the drain pan. Put bolts through the holes to keep the bolt holes open. Let cure for 30 minutes. Replace the pan. Make certain bolts are tight.

The water pump seal prevents water and antifreeze from leaking out and overheating your vehicles engine. According to AA1Car, most water pumps are designed to go 100,000 miles or more, but its not unusual to see leaks occur after 50,000 or 60,000 miles. Replacing the entire water pump is often necessary in putting a stop to the seal leak.

Instructions

1

Pour a liquid radiator/water pump stop-leak product, such as Bars Liquid Radiator Stop Leak, into your vehicles radiator. The radiator is usually located in the front of the engine. The liquid stop-leak product poured into the radiator will flow to the water pump seal and possibly seal or slow the leak. Ensure that the radiator is not hot, and your vehicle is running before pouring the solution into your radiator. Stop-leak products are not a permanent solution and will only serve as a temporary fix.

2

Replace the entire water pump. You will need to know your vehicles exact make, model, year and engine type in order to purchase the correct water pump for your vehicle.

3

Find or purchase your specific vehicles repair manual. Because every vehicle is different, you will need your vehicles specific repair manual to successfully replace the water pump. The repair manual will describe in detail step by step instructions on how to replace your vehicles water pump. You can purchase or find a repair manual for your vehicle at automotive stores or at your local library.