Automatic Transmission Fluid Release

csbarry · 08-10-2011, 01:47 PM

I'm doing an engine swap for the first time. The vehicle I'm working on is a 1996 Ford Escort LX with a 1.9L engine and an automatic transmission. Everything has gone great so far except for the release of about a pint of ATF as the engine disengaged from the transmission. I'd like an answer regarding these two issues. First, was the ATF release normal and secondly, is there any preventative maintenence (i.e. replace seals, etc.) I should do within the transmission "bell housing" before I re-install the engine?

Thanks for any help you can render.

Pecos Slick · 08-10-2011, 03:00 PM

I don't know but I'm sure those in the know would like the year, model and engine and transmission of the car you are working on.

csbarry · 08-10-2011, 05:37 PM

Thanks Pecos Slick, I edited it in.

Boghog · 08-10-2011, 05:40 PM

You probably disengaged the torque converter from the input shaft.Some fluid loss is normal.Just make sure that before you install the engine the converter is fully seated. As far as preventive maintainance,you should be ok if you had no leaks before the swap.What do you have for mileage?

csbarry · 08-10-2011, 07:38 PM

The car has 58784 miles on it. Good chance it's original mileage; the rest of the car is in great shape.

Pletchaj · 08-11-2011, 06:26 AM

I have to agree with boghog there it was probably just the converted be unseated from the seal ... However, while your doing this swap change that front seal as well... there like 3-4 dollars usually well worth it to keep from having to separate the engine and transmission again