mystery leak on driveway only when parked on incline (even slight)

[robshaver]

I have a 2004 Chev Venture LS with what I believe is the 4T65E transmission. I change the fluid once a year and notice the level is almost 100% at the end of the year. However, unless I park the vehicle in my level garage I will get a small drip (5-8 drops per night) occuring when the vehicle is parked on a grade, even a slight grade. I've wiped the pan and gasket area many times and it doesn't seem to be the source.

Does anyone have any suggestions where this leak may be coming from? Should I worry about a no-drive condition? It's annoying to clean the drops each time I park on the driveway, but I really don't want to spend money if it's not a saftey issue.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Rob

 

[BillBoost37]

Rob..when you say grade, nose up or nose down?

I'm assuming nose up. If so, then that would be a tweaked spot or rust bubble on the dipstick tube where the holding tab was welded to it. See pic

 

[robshaver]

Yes, you are correct. It seems to be only nose up. I wondered about a reverse or forward servo cover leaking too. However, if it's just the dipstick tube I don't think I need worry too much. You think?

Strikes me odd also, that it has been like this since almost new. Maybe after a year it started?

 

[BillBoost37]

Say someone moved the tube, just the right way (pretend I don't have extensive experience "adjusting" these things) and it ripped one of the welds a little. That is enough to do it.

At most, I'd get under there...wipe it with a brake cleaner rag, then toss a little blob of RTV in the area. Let it dry and hope for the best. If you succeed, smile..if not.. say "oh well" and go on with life.

 

[robshaver]

Thank-you. I'll do just that.