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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1956 chevy 210 Transmission leak

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Expert: - 4/6/2008


Question
I have a 1956 Chevrolet 210 with 6 cylinder and powerglide transmission. Large puddle of transmission fluid under the car after sitting all winter. The lines seem okay. What else could it be? Original 50000 mile car.

Answer
Hi Pat:
If it sat all winter, that's not good. Ii should be driven occasionally even in winter. The worse thing you can do for an engine or tranny is let it sat for long periods.

My guess is that you have a leaky or bad seal. The Tranny, like the engine seals will loosen when cold and not used regularly. Also too much fluid will cause leaks. So, assuming the right amount of fluid was used, I would fill her up with new fluid and drive her for a while (say 50 to 75 miles) and see if the heat doesn't re-seal the tranny. If you find the weak is minor after this drive, you may want to try a can of Lucas transmission Stop Leak (Auto Zone). If the leak is really heavy, you may need new seals.

Make sure you only check the transmission fluid level whne the car is hot (after drive for at least 20 to 30 minutes), otherwise you make get a false reading and accidently over fill the transmission. That will certainly cause a leak.

Hope this helps.

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