KA24DE transmission leak!(pic)

[2.4Loflove]

I was swapping out my rear brakes this morning when I noticed that the very rear of my transmission had some trans oil on it. I've taken a picture (sry only have cell phone camera right now) and boxed in where the drips are settling, directly adjacent to the catalytic converter. Is this a common seal to go out or something more serious>? it's a 93 s13. Thanks guys
Modified by 2.4Loflove at 3:19 PM 3/1/2008

[driftingmy240sx]

hard to tell but looks like the output shat seal is leaking. better pics wold help.

[2.4Loflove]

well if it is the output shaft seal, how do i go about replacing it? is it a hard install?

[driftingmy240sx]

you will need to remove the drive shaft. use a large screw drver to pop out the old seal. use a small hammer to tap the new seal in and reinstall the drive shaft.if you have smoe mechanical ability it should be a fairly easy job, but you may fight geting the drive shaft bolts loose.

[2.4Loflove]

yeah, those bolts have been on there for about 15 years or so.. I wish I had access to a lift. I looked up the price for a new seal and they're cheap, so that's not a problem. Is there any way to check your transmission fluid level other than taking the fill plug off? Are there any warning signs of low fluid levels? thanks man

[driftingmy240sx]

the only way to check the manual trans fluid is by removing the fill plug. if the trans does run "dry" you will notice a lot of noise.

[NM50]

Looks like the trans shift tower,check the vent for clogging.

[2.4Loflove]

the vent where at now? I have never done work on the transmission so I'm kind of clueless...

[nisstek]

Is there any oil forward of that drip that is hanging off the tailshaft? The boot on the shifter could be torn. That is the most common thing I've seen. If so, you'll need the boot, a couple zip ties, and a shifter plate gasket.

[2.4Loflove]

alright, ill have to check that out today. thanks man

[2.4Loflove]

alright, the shifter boot is a little cracked and stuff, but there is no transmission fluid up that far so the boot is out of the question. Still need to check the "vent" that NM50 was talking about..wherever that is located.

[ricebike]

whatever u do, make sure there's sufficient fluid inside the transmission via the side plug... or you'll be getting a replacement soon...

[2.4Loflove]

it's on the right side of the transmission? I haven't seen any puddles in my driveway or anything so it can't be that low.. I think it might be the output shaft seal.

[nisstek]

It probably is the output shaft seal. The vent is more towards the front. I've only seen oil come out of there when the trans is overfilled. I definately agree that if the oil level is low getting it toppped off quit is very important. The front counter gear bearing and the input shaft bearings will fail.

[2.4Loflove]

yeah, I know the transmission situation is beyond my expertise, because right now I have a jack an a couple of stands so to hell with it. I have an appointment for her at the Nissan dealer tomorrow morning thanks to all for the advice!