I decided to drain the fluid and replace the filter on the 40TE automatic transaxle on my 2003 Neon. Problem is after careful draining ( I let the transmission drain for 28 hours) I installed a new filter. I cleaned the flange of the transmission pan, applied a rubber gasket to the pan with RTV sealant on both sides of the gasket. I let the RTV set up for about 10 minutes and then installed the pan. I torqued the pan bolts to about 100 inch lbs. Service manual suggest 165 inch lbs but I did not want to over torque.
Installed appropriate amount of fluid and after driving to get transmission thoroughly warm, I have a leak a the lowest point of the transmission pan flange and between 2 center bolts. Leak is in the gasket to flange area and not around the bolt heads. I always have trouble of getting a good, leak free seal with any automatic transmission pan on a Chrysler vehicle.
The problem is that I think you could let this vehicle sit 10 years with the transmission pan off and it would still slowly drip fluid from the lowest area of the pan. Dripping oil gets on the pan flange and sealant and prevents a good bond to the transmission case from forming.
The fransmission pan flange edge is straight and the bolt openings are not deformed. Is there a better type of sealant to use other than RTV?
Installed appropriate amount of fluid and after driving to get transmission thoroughly warm, I have a leak a the lowest point of the transmission pan flange and between 2 center bolts. Leak is in the gasket to flange area and not around the bolt heads. I always have trouble of getting a good, leak free seal with any automatic transmission pan on a Chrysler vehicle.
The problem is that I think you could let this vehicle sit 10 years with the transmission pan off and it would still slowly drip fluid from the lowest area of the pan. Dripping oil gets on the pan flange and sealant and prevents a good bond to the transmission case from forming.
The fransmission pan flange edge is straight and the bolt openings are not deformed. Is there a better type of sealant to use other than RTV?