[GreyStroker]

Drove up to Idyllwild yesterday in a E-350 Ford RV. Got all the way up the mountain no problem, got into the campground, put the tranny in "Park" and fluid started pouring out between the block and the bellhousing. Once it cooled off, pulled the rubber plug on the bottom of the bellhousing, gaining view access to the torque converter, and very little fluid present. Thinking it's the main seal? Can we keep filling it to get home? Or should it be fixed locally?
Please help! Stranded now....

[SeanPlunk]

That sucks. I would try to fill the fluid and drive it a little bit to see how bad it leaks while you're moving. If it's still leaking a lot when you're moving I would definitely get it fixed at that point - you don't want to burn the transmission up.

[94cobra69ss396]

I agree with Sean. I've done the same thing only with the engine oil back when I had the 396 in the Chevelle. I was at Carlbad Raceway and I punctured the oil pan. I stopped off at an Autozone and picked up a case off oil. I had to stop about every 40 minutes and add a quart or 2 but I made it home.

[injdinjn]

Describe the fluid. Oil , tranny fluid, or antifreeze.

I had my truck fixed at the gas station (Idyllwild garage) there in town, they are reasonable and honest. Don't go near the Certified tire & service dealer in Banning - dumb crooks.

Oops maybe I'll remember the title next time.

Buy lots of fluid and baby it home.

[GreyStroker]

Thanks everyone for your help. Took another vehicle into town, talked to the mechanic at the gas station. He told my friend (whose vehicle it is and who drove it) and after conversation, deduced that my dumb@ss friend drove all the way up the mountain in overdrive and heated up a seal. After it cooled down, added 6 quarts and an additive, it held fluid and drove all the way back to Riverside no problem.

[94cobra69ss396]

Good to hear. Looks like your friend needs to add an additional trans cooler with it's own dedicated fan.

[SeanPlunk]

Glad to hear it was nothing major!