Stupid question about TH350 fluid capacity

I've been chasing down a fluid leak in my TH350. It's coming out of the dipstick tube at a very slow leak but will put a full cup on the floor overnight.

I removed the dipstick to seal it with RTV and a good quart gushed out.

When the engine is running, the fluid level appears correct on the stick, but with this much gushing out of the tube, you would think its overfilled and perhaps he has the wrong tube installed\

The question is, when properly filled, should the fluid level be below the dipstick tube with the engine off, or is the fluid level above the dipstick tube without the engine running, and a leak normal in this area if not properly sealed.

Thanks

 

the torque converter is draining back into the pan ..when it's running the pump is keeping the converter full...it shouldn't drain down over night, thats why when you look at a automatic car thats been setting for a long time they usually have transmission fluid under them ..

 

The guy I bought it from also had a trans cooler installed, that's likely what's draining down overnight.

I guess I need to find the proper O-ring or tube to seal it properly.

Thanks

 

Sounds to me like the wrong tube or dipstick, I don't think anything is draining back, sounds like it is over full to me. The reason most autos leak after setting for an extended period of time is the weight of the torque converter setting stationary deforms the lip of the seal enough to let fluid leak out of the converter. If the seal is still pliable when you top them up and run them the seal usually rounds back out and seals fine.

 

The reason the oil is leaking when parked is because the convertor is draining back as already stated. To prove it check the dipstick without the engine running, it will be way over full. Start the engine up and check it while its running and the fluid should be at or slightly below the full mark. If you want to seal the tube with RTV you have to make sure the area you're putting the RTV on is completely dry or the RTV won't stick. Best just to get a new oring.

 

Thanks guys.

 

There are two types of seals on the dipstick of a turbo 350.
Early ones use an O ring, later ones use a tapered synthetic rubber seal.
Check your dipstick tube and see which one you have.
I believe the tapered one will work with the earlier tube also.
Good Luck!

 

Yep, new seal or o-ring on the dipstick tube, the leak is the bigger deal of the two. The draining down is due to wear in the pump/valves and won't hurt anything as long as the pump works good enough to keep you going. You already know how to check it for proper level, with motor running.

 

I found the best way to stop the leak, is to replace the the tube and stick with a Locar tube it has 2 o rings always works for me.You are not over full it just drains down the lower part and that raises the level above the stick,normal......jobob

 

If a good quart or more of fluid gushed out, your ****** was overfull .Sure you will lose a little normally when you pull a tube from drain back, that is why you check them warmed up and running.