Hole in Transmission block?

2014 FORD ESCAPE

137,000 MILES • 0.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

SATCHEM

MEMBER
3 POSTS
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I have a hole in my transmission block where the transmission bolts to the engine between the torque converter. Can this be tig welded or should I let it ride as is? I only need the vehicle to last me 2 more years. less than 20 miles per week.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Aug 2, 2023 at 11:11 AM

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STEVE W.

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
15,146 POSTS

That hole isn't a problem. It's not located in an area where it will cause issues.

Aug 2, 2023 at 4:36 PM

SATCHEM

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you, it's leaking small amounts of transmission fluid, though. I'll just keep an eye on the transmission fluid, but it's a little bit of a pain on these escapes because the fill check is simply a bolt behind the driver-side wheel. Others have stated if a small amount is running out of the hole, the levels are adequate.

Aug 2, 2023 at 4:51 PM

STEVE W.

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
15,146 POSTS

If it is leaking, then it comes from the front transmission seal. That is in reality a weep hole to tell you if there is a problem. The image is what that transmission looks like on that surface. Two things can show up in that hole, transmission fluid from a bad front seal or engine oil from a bad rear main seal. Nothing but air should be in there normally.
Yeah, the newer vehicles with "lifetime" fluids can be tough to deal with because of the idiotic ways they prevent fluid checks.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Aug 3, 2023 at 1:53 AM

SATCHEM

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you, Steve. I agree with you. It has to be a seal not that pea sized hole that is leaking.

Aug 3, 2023 at 6:59 AM