915 tranny leak normal?

elflamo · 10-01-2011, 04:33 PM

Hello all,

yesterday I've put the rebuild engine back in. While fiddling to get the transmission on (first series 915), the transmission tilted some 45 degrees, meaning the input shaft side was the lowest point. I noticed oil coming from the input shaft.

The input shaft seal was replaced not so many miles ago and was not causing any leaks before I pulled the engine (approx. 8 months ago).

One explanation could be that, while the transmission was tilted, all the transmission fluid was accumulated directly behind the seal. Maybe the seal was not designed to keep that much oil in?

Or (arrrgh), do I have to replace the seal again? (this is first series 915...)

Oh Haha · 10-01-2011, 05:53 PM

I believe your theory on the amount of fluid being against the seal is correct.

Don't worry about it unless the leak becomes worse.

BTW-what's the story behind your user name? I read it as it as elf-lamo.

Hugh R · 10-01-2011, 06:14 PM

I read it as El-flamo. I would not worry about the seal. It didn't leak before pulling it, right?

cgarr · cgarr's Garage

Without the pilot bearing holding the shaft centered it's going to leak.

Sent from my iPhone

elflamo · 10-01-2011, 10:44 PM

Ah, thx guys. This issue kept me awake last night. My midnight thoughts (you probably know how that goes) had already evolved into a complete tranny rebuild, which I want to get done, but after next season (earliest).

Indeed, it did not leak before I pulled the engine. I noticed a little greased surface in the bell housing, but no trace of oil coming from the input shaft. I guess I'll cross my fingers and get the engine run in and used during the next season and see what happens.

My real last name is 'De Vlaam', where 'De' translates to 'The' in English. Hence El Flamo. Surely it doesn't mean 'lame elf', lol