Hey dudes, on a trip and could really use some help!!

[packweco]

Hey all,

Today my girlfriend and I embarked on what is to be a 10 day trip to Utah. We are taking my '98 V6 4WD and had a bit of a problem concerning the transmission today.

On our way, we got into a ~1 hour traffic jam and were moving at <5 MPH the whole time, up a hill. We are also completely loaded down with gear, including 4 weeks worth of clothes for the girlfriend and hyperactive dog. After we got out of that mess, we traveled about 15 more minutes and stopped at a gas station.

Upon arriving, I found gratuitous amounts of ATF all over the bottom of the runner. I looked around quite a bit and there was no clear culprit for the leak. From the bottom I could see ATF as high as the trans cooler line in/out (not sure which that is) and the O2 sensor connector. Looking at the top, I could see ATF up near where it mates to the motor. None of the lines were wet farther forward.

The level showed slightly above full on the hot section. I never got an overheat light the whole time.

Here's my diagnosis: The transmission had been slightly overfilled at some point. I have never added fluid in the 2 years I have owned it (only checked) so it's conceivable it's been that way the whole time. This little stint in the traffic jam is likely the hottest I have ever gotten it. I'm thinking it started blowing ATF out of the vent on the top.

All I'm looking for are second opinions here. The only other option we probably have at this point is renting a car to take and I'd rather not do that. Thanks in advance for any help!!

 

[calimobber]

I would just keep on course and keep an eye on it. Keep checking trans oil level and try keep an eye out for more. Remember a little bit of oil can look like a ton of oil. maybe it got hot and leaked from some place. idk sounds unlikey but with no good solid point idk.

Are you going to be around civilization for a day or 2 in case you get into trouble?




x2 maybe power steering?? keep looking!

 

[Grenvilleter]

Let it cool down then continue on monitoring fluid levels. Disengage to O/D on hills or anywhere it looks to be causing strain on the vehicle.
Similar situ happened to me years ago with no ill after effects. Not on a T4R however.

You may want to consider a few drain and fills on your tranny as each only yields about 4-5 litres of replaced fluid but don't get too aggressive with flushing etc.

Luck to you

 

[AZBub]

I think the problem is due to the 4 weeks of women's clothing. If you cut it down to two the 4runner should be fine.

If the Transmission is showing a high level of fluid maybe drain a little out and re-check level, add if needed.

Are you turning the OD off when driving mountain grades?

 

[packweco]

I think the problem is due to the 4 weeks of women's clothing. If you cut it down to two the 4runner should be fine.

If the Transmission is showing a high level of fluid maybe drain a little out and re-check level, add if needed.

Are you turning the OD off when driving mountain grades?

Thanks for the replies everyone! Sounds like everyone has the same mindset that I do.

I've been slowly getting rid of her things as we go, I have a feeling the trans will cool off after that mission is complete.

All joking aside, yes I have been turning off the O/D for hills. [MENTION=68424]calimobber[/MENTION] We will definitely be near civilization if we need any help, the power steering system looked totally dry. I'll keep a close eye on it. The remainder of the drive from that gas station stop didn't seem to make the leak any worse, so hopefully it'll stay that way.