Transaxle seal leak

[little66085]

My right transaxle seems to leaking fluid slowly. The car is 7 years old but only has 12k miles. It looks like the cover can be tightened, but how tight? Will this stop the leak or do I need to replace the seal?
Thanks, Rob

[lotusguy]

My right transaxle seems to leaking fluid slowly. The car is 7 years old but only has 12k miles. It looks like the cover can be tightened, but how tight? Will this stop the leak or do I need to replace the seal?
Thanks, Rob

Rob,

It's likely that the low miles is the biggest contributing factor to the leak you've developed. Unfortunately, the only real fix is to replace the gasket. Once a paper gasket starts to leak, fluid will continue to 'wick' through it. But, it's not really that bad a repair. The torque settings must be strictly observed as you don't want to strip the aluminum threads in the housing. The driveshaft bolts are 60 ft.lbs. and the housing to the gearbox are 60-80 ft.lbs.

Be sure to apply the gasket with Hylomar and when ordering, I'd get them for both sides. The other side may not be leaking at the moment, but it has lived the same 'life', so it may not be far behind. Hope this helps. Happy Motoring! Jim'85TE

[dr.ian]

Hey Rob, my lotus is in the paint booth as we speak....I will get ahold of you when I get it back.pu together. Ian

[little66085]

Well, I apperciate the comments. However, can anyone tell me the process required to replace the transaxle seals? Are they press in seals with paper or just paper? Also, do you need a special tool to remove the threaded plate or will a chisel and hammer work? I have the car on a lift and would like to fix soon. Thanks, Rob.