2003 Transmission fluid loss

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Musky Mike

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2019
Hello,

I have a 2003 Dakota, 4.7, 4x4, auto trans (it’s not a Ram, but I think the engine/trans is the same as some Ram models). It has 165k and the fluid and filter were changed at 80k and 140k. I will go a week or two and the transmission fluid level is fine, then I’ll check it a few days later and it will be down a quart. I can’t find any external leaks, the transmission fluid looks good (bright red), the coolant looks good (green) in over flow and under the cap and the level of fluid in transfer case is good (not over full). Any ideas where it is going?
 

Karlsweg

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2007
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5.7 hemi
I would look at driveshaft seal. Mine wouldn’t show leaks but the seal was bad and it would sling the atf around the floor pan which was crusted with dirt. Look and see if that’s the issue.
 

LoneWolf3574

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2006
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I had a trans seal leak that I caught early on, it formed a line about 1" wide on the tunnel and small drop forming on the tail end of the trans. I don't know much about 4x4's but I'd try starting at the tail shaft area and go from there, especially if your trans cooler looks good and has no leaks.
 

hotkarl

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2002
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4.7 Semi-Hemi
I had a pinhole in the line in just the right spot that the fluid was leaking into a spot where you could not see it. Wasn't even hitting the ground or leaving a puddle. Drove me nuts. I kept waiting for the tranny to die because I thought it was eating fluid. I found the leak when I was not looking for it anymore.
 
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Musky Mike

Musky Mike

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Put it up on ramps today, looked everywhere, checked the trans lines, transfer case, weep hole in the bottom of the bell housing, pan seal...no leaks anywhere. Coolant looks good too.
 
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