Brad, I had similar thing happen on my '84 last Fall.  I had had the
governor seal O-ring fail before and it was a simple matter to get the right
O-ring and move on.  This time the new O-ring held for about three days
before the seal on the kickdown plate seal let loose.

One of the techs where I get my van serviced suggested a local auto
transmission shop.  For $125, I got the problem fixed.  There was apparently
dirt in the valve body that was causing improper pressures.

John Lauterbach
'84 7-passenger
Macon, GA
----- Original Message -----
From: "Brad Fowler" <pod@FLASHMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 8:55 PM
Subject: Transmission leak

> Hey everyone,
>
> Hope this question isn't too ignorant, but I'm having a hard time
> finding the right information since I don't have the Bentley manual and
> the local library's out of stock....
>
> What is the purpose/function of the circular metal plate next to the
> driver's side CV joint, towards the front of the van?  It's held on by a
> metal wire, so to speak, and appears to be on the side of the
> transmission.
>
> On my '86 GL, fluid is leaking from it.
>
> Thanks,
>
>    Brad
>