jplug2007

I have a 1998 XJ after years of CJ's and TJ's. I just couldn't stand the idea of the spare tire on the roof but did it until I can find a decent swing away. As soon as I did that I had to take a 150 mile trip. About 40 miles into the trip I noticed a haze on the rear window. Pulled over and it was trans fluid. Oil pan everything was covered with it. Took a look as best I could, added fluid and off I went again. Same thing happened in 1/2 hour or so. I was crusin right along at 60 mph or so. Is it possible that the areo ressitance caused by the 31 X 10..50 on the roof could of caused my AT fluid to boil over? Never had a problem until spare tire on roof. Went to first Jeep Dealer I could find, diagnosed leaking valve cover and oil pan gasket even though purple fluid was no doubt trans fluid so they were a big help. this has never happened before because it doesn't leak a drop. So, I am going to flush and add a trans cooler. But, could it be the spare tire? or some other issue. Anything I should be looking at to stop the issue. Lines are not leaking. Any help from you guys would be much appreciated. I have 31 X 10:50's on it now, don't know the gearing but it doesn't lug. I don't have a aftermarket trans cooler on it yet but will shortly now should I put that in-line or stand alone, sorry for long post but this is first auto trans.
Thanks
Jplug

Gee oh Dee

No, that wouldn't cause it. Something else is wrong.

xjsnake

Tire wouldn't cause that.

You are on the right track with an aftermarket trans cooler though I don't recommend you have the trans flushed.

I'm a big proponent of the drain and fill method which won't shock the transmission with all new fluid.

jplug2007

Could you just explain the drain and fill method. I take it that you just drain the tranny and refillwith fluid?? Maybe do it again in a day or to?

xjsnake

Yup that's pretty much it. The pan holds something like a quarter of the fluid in the whole transmission so when you drain the pan you are changing that quarter out.

Drain it out, replace with the equal amount of new Dex/Merc III and drive for a couple tanks of fuel. Then repeat the process.

Takes awhile to get it to a nice pink/red color but it's easier on the transmission.