63 cadillac jetaway filler tube leak

[Jim Pino]

Hello Everyone once again I am struggling with transmission leak. After months of inspecting, changing pan gaskets, and pans, I can definitely see a slow yet constant leak from the filler tube where it mates to the trans. Here is the problem, the tube is mounted to the exhaust manifold and upon inspection and trying to remove that bolt I fear it breaking into the block and opening a world of troubles. Without removing the filler tube, Is there any other way to replace that O ring or put some non hardening sealant around the tube to stop this leak? Any suggestion will be greatly appreciated, thanks for your time.

Jim P

[Jason Edge]

I will just add that if you have a solid intact bracket you are in the minority as I would say over 1/2 of the parts cars with Hydramatics I have brought in have a broken trans filler tube to engine bracket. I know I have at least 2 on the shelf now with the bracket rotted away.   For the Turbo Hydramatic  tubes used in 64 they did not seem to be welded to the tube like the Hydramatics. Instead they use a cupped bracket that wraps around the tube, then attaches to the exhaust manifold bolt.  I have sold several of these THM brackets over the years to attach to Hydramatic tubes with brackets that have broken off. 

As far as that back bolt, I don't remember that being one to breaking and is actually not to hard to get to. Just use a good 6 point 14mm socket, with short extension, ratchet and pipe and you should be able to get it turning. Some say heating the engine helps. I've just never had an issue with that bolt either way.

[David Thomas]

Unfortunately, you'll have to get the tube out to replace the o-ring. Be sure the tube is as straight as you can get it, going into the transmission. I've seen a lot of folks grab that tube and pivot it out of the way, bending the bracket, to do other tasks. That act will almost always cause the seal to leak by cocking the tube out of the alignment in the transmission. Most likely it only leaks when the engine is off when the fluid drains back into the pan. For a temporary solution, if possible, you may find some help by parking with the right side of the car higher than the left. That would tilt the fluid level to the left side of the transmission. That also will let you know if the shift and TV rod seals are leaking. Be sure you don't have the transmission over filled.