This is my second post regarding a post for "Nigel,
" my 120,000 mile 2005 XKR convertible's transmission.
The first advice received regarding the slipping between gears was to replace the ATF with new, due to the age of the ATF, not the mileage. Doing so did correct this problem and the advice was much appreciated.
However, Nigel has since been experiencing "enuresis" (a very slow drip of the fluid.) The bolts on the transmission pan were checked for tightness, but the problem continued. Then that new pan was replaced (under warranty,) but still the leak. Any other suggestions on what can be causing this issue?
Thank you for any assistance you can provide.
GLC

 

Mechatronic sleeve connector is the most likely culprit.

 

General advice would be do use brake cleaner to clean everything up the best you can, make sure everything looks nice/clean/dry. Then drive some, and check again, this time hopefully identifying the source of the leak.

FWIW, there is a very specific and precise tightening sequence for all these bolts pressing the pan to the transmission body. If you are chasing leaks there, make sure this procedure is followed. Search for images of "6hp26 bolt sequence". The seal is sort of in the shape of a skinny belt, and fits vertically into a groove in the pan. It has to be handled with some care obviously.

Second, as @giandanielxk8 pointed out, the leak is likely coming from failed o-rings on the connector sleeve. This is located a bit higher on the transmission, somewhere around the output shaft. Unfortunately, the sleeve is locked in place, and pulling the release requires removing the pan again. This is why these jobs are generally recommended to be done together: pan/fluid, connector sleeve, tube seals and even bridge seal on top of the valve body.

There are also more annoying scenarios where (excess?) fluid comes out of the bell housing inspection hole, behind that black plastic cap.

The lines to the cooler can also leak, but this is very infrequent.

Beware that the pressure side of the power steering pump can leak too, leaving red fluid on the ground. Much further forward of course.

Best is to identify the true source and go from there.

 

Mertz:
A sincere "thank you!"
GLC