3rd gen transmission problem...

[ssshanno]

Hi -
I have a 2002 4Runner and the transmission has died on a trip. The transmission fluid temp idiot light came on more or less simultaneously with all loss of power to the wheels. Looking at the under side of the transmission, it looks like fluid has leaked out somewhere... I'm hoping a blown seal or o-ring somewhere...

How does one add more fluid or check the fluid level/condition? (I can't find a fluid check or add port!)
I've had the car towed to a dealer, but I'd like to have some understanding of what likely when wrong before I hear the song & dance
Thanks!
SSShanno

 

[kball]

It has a dipstick. Passenger side near the firewall. What color was the fluid that was leaking out?

 

[ssshanno]

the fluid was reddish brown and pretty clear (not like old engine oil or burnt looking)

 

[ssshanno]

Yeah- I found that OK, but how would one add fluid if needed? (at least for future reference

BTW, I the breakdown occurred after a long day of hard interstate driving-- 500 miles pulling a small (15') pop-up tent trailer.

 

[kball]

Well that should rule out any strawberry milkshake issues which is good! I believe the trans temp light comes on if the fluid hits 300 deg so it got hot. If it was leaking the level may have got too low and it overheated. Even without getting hot, it the fluid level gets too low the truck won't move. I guess the main issue is going to be where it's leaking from and how much to fix that. Hopefully the overheating didn't last long enough to do permanent damage.

 

[kball]

Yeah- I found that OK, but how would one add fluid if needed? (at least for future reference

BTW, I the breakdown occurred after a long day of hard interstate driving-- 500 miles pulling a small (15') pop-up tent trailer.

You add fluid with a funnel through the dipstick tube.

When towing you should keep the overdrive off. Keeps it from hunting (constantly shifting) which builds up the most heat.

 

[ssshanno]

I got to the edge of the road immediately and shut the car down. I was able to move it about 200 yards to an exit ramp after about 30 minutes of cooling down. No real power, but enough grab to move at 5mph and get out of the way of traffic. we'll see how it goes with the dealer in the morning. For now I'm stranded 500 miles from home at $150 per night ;-) cest la vie

 

[ssshanno]

Thanks for the hint on the overdrive-- I never knew that and it's always driven me crazy the way it "hunts" for a better gear (and always what seems unusually high).
Thanks for the tips-
Scott

 

[kball]

Good luck with the dealer! :beer: