Topic: c4 trans. gasket

[tclark]

 I had a real small leak from trans. pan on my 65 mustang, so I decided to replace gasket (cork) leaked worse, tried it again with a new pan leaked worse?
 3rd time I tried it using another cork gasket and applying Versachem gasket maker another mistake.  So I think I might be way over tighten everything?   Any other Ideas? 
 Thanks,
Tom

[carlite65]

is the pan surface absolutely flat? did you run a file over the bolt holes or use a straightedge to check it? were both surfaces surgically clean? and are you sure it is the pan leaking and not running down from above?

[jwc66k]

The problem is the pan. Over the years the screw holes have distorted "upward" (reference the mounting direction) into a bump. The "solution" is to pound the bump flat (or even a bit more). I found a 5/8 inch thick block of steel (3/4 inch may work) to act as a backing while tapping the mounting surface flat. Then -

- use a straightedge to check it -

Jim

[RoyceP]

Probably a leaking dipstick tube. The O - ring surface often cracks on the tube. When that leaks it puts the ATF right on the pan gasket. Lots of pan gaskets get replaced until you realize where it is actually coming from.

[BKnapp]

How tight are you getting them? I think it is only 12 ft-lbs or so...I don’t have my shop manual handy. If they have been over tightened, then you will likely need to flatten the bolt holes as others have described.

[NC TRACKRAT]

As others have recommended, make sure the pan flange is perfectly flat, including the holes.  From memory, I think it's only 7 ft.-lb.(84 in.-lb.) and tighten them in criss-cross fashion as though you were torqueing a head.  Let sit overnight, then gently torque again.  Prayer also helps.