Does the transmission need to be dropped to install the transmission gasket(s)?

1997 DODGE CARAVAN
160,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Hi, I have a Grand Caravan. We bought it last month from an individual. We had it a few days before we noticed a transmission leak. We took it to a mechanic and said it was leaking from 2 different seals. He tried to silicone the leak then noticed it leaking from the solenoid pack and took it apart not knowing it was all one piece and used silicone and put it back on. Afterward it wouldn't shift properly. It would shift and then if you stopped it would quit shifting so we bought a new solenoid pack and he put it on, and it still will shift then won't shift from high gear if you stop or after a short time. We need help please. Also, how many transmission gaskets are on it? He said once we get it shifting again, he has to drop the transmission to put in a gasket. Is this true?
Dec 20, 2023 at 7:53 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
There are several gaskets which one is he talking about? I would run the codes to see if any are stored, I would not like to see you try to fix a transmission that needs to be rebuilt.

Please use this guide to get the codes:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Also, you say we bought a new solenoid pack, and then it didn't shift anymore so the mechanic did not do a good job or the part you supplied is defective. Also, can you get short video or images of the leak so I can tell where it is coming from? Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Dec 21, 2023 at 9:09 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
I do not have a picture at this time. But after he put on the new solenoid, it would shift for a little while then get stuck in high gear and not shift anymore. I will have to get the code again from him, but it showed no signal to the TCM, and he wants us to buy a new TCM. Do you think we need a new one?
Dec 23, 2023 at 9:33 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
It was leaking from the solenoid itself and from the pan also. It leaked over a quart of fluid.
Dec 23, 2023 at 9:34 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Also, our mechanic said he thinks it was a rebuilt transmission put into it because it had number on the top so he thinks it's already been changed once and it looked like the previous owner had took a hammer to the pan.
Dec 23, 2023 at 9:35 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
It did show a code, but I can't remember what it was, I will have to ask my mechanic, but I remember it showing up as the TCM or BCM and he wants us to replace the TCM.
Dec 23, 2023 at 10:03 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
Yes, I have seen many TCM go out on these vehicles, here is the location and how to change it out so you can see what needs to be done. I would check Ebay for the part. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Images (Click to enlarge)
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Dec 26, 2023 at 2:02 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Thank you. We are getting one Friday and he is going to change it and I will let you know what he says.
Dec 26, 2023 at 3:16 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
He told me his computer showed the TCM was getting no connection so that's why I asked you, but we should have it changed on Friday. Also, do we have to drop the transmission to put on the oil pan gasket? He said he got all the bolts out but one he can't get to and said he had to drop the transmission to get to it.
Dec 26, 2023 at 3:19 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
If he is changing the side pan gasket then yes it may need to be dropped down a little to get to the bolt, I don't think you need to remove the unit though. If he is changing the bottom gasket then you don't need to drop the transmission out of the car. Let's start a new question for the TCM issue please. We only handle one problem per thread, please post your new question here, you must be logged in.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Dec 27, 2023 at 3:49 AM
Avatar
SHERRYSUE91
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Thank you! I will post my new question now.
Dec 27, 2023 at 4:06 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,238 POSTS
You are welcome, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
Dec 27, 2023 at 11:45 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.