Long time lurker/new member here,

I 've got a question for some of you mechanic types. My 2001 4x4 recently started leaking a black fluid of some sorts. Initially I thought it was an oil leak but after pulling the dip stick and comparing the color of the fluid, the leaking fluid is much darker and more viscous. After rolling under the truck, I noticed the fluid is pooling along why I suspect is the TC (sorry not a mechanic) or TC cover behind the front axle. Again, I initially thought that it was an oil issue b/c I have been very recently getting a "check gauge" oil pressure warning every cold morning (never happened in warm weather and only after the first start). Any ideas on both problems?

Thanks in advance.

JR

 

On the leak, don't leave it without at least checking the fluids. I had a drip in my tranny. Week after week I was "gonna" deal with it, but never did. Didn't even top off the fluid. Tranny weny bye bye.

If you don't have one, I'd invest in a Haynes or Chiltons Manual. It will show where the fill hole is and what type of oil.

 

Thanks. I've checked the transmission fluid. Levels are fine and the fluid is still a nice red color. I'm not sure where/how to check the TC fluid, the manual is horrible. I had planned on taking it by a shop on Monday for a quick look see.

 

I'm trying to find my camera as I type this (I have a set of OEM side steps that I need to photo for ebay) but the wife seems to have misplaced it. If it is the front axle seal, see any issues driving it until I get it looked at?

 

Forgive me for being an engine/tranny noob but doesn't the dip stick on the passenger side check the tansmission fluid? So it sounds like a trany leak? I'll post pics as soon as I find that camera.

JR

 

There's a dipstick if you have an auto tranny. A manual has to be checked at the tranny fill hole.

 

Yea I guess I should mentioned that. It's a 3.0 XLT Supercab 4 door 4x4 with auto transmission.

 

Here are the pics:





Thanks in advance.

 

See any major issues with either leaks? anything I can do to make sure it doesn't get worse until I can get it looked at? Thanks again.