ATF fluid going into the differential is usually the governor seal, not the
seals between the auto and diff sections. This is also repairable trans in
place. Differential fluid getting into the Auto section is less common. It
could be seals between the two sections or the seal at the other end of the
pinion shaft. Replacing this seal requires removing the differential and
disassembly of same. This is a job.

Usually when these seals fail it is symptom of something else going on.
Usually over heating of the fluids. Bad bearings will also cause seals to
leak. It is common for the vents on top of the transmission to get blocked
up with road crud and when the happens fluid will get forced everywhere when
it expands as temperature increases.

Part of any good overhaul includes rebuilding the torque converter. Yes they
do go bad and they hold all the fluid contaminants. Rebuilding them means
cutting them open, cleaning and replacing the internal parts and welding
them back together and balancing them. I have also seen them develop leaks.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Michael
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 8:18 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Sad and depressed

Sooooo,

Last December the 88 auto blew the diff gasket. Checked atf. Nothing.

This winter replaced engine oil, diff oil and gasket and coolant as well as
threw in some atf.

Just moved the van. It revs really high. Like 3500 high before it moves. It
feels like it's stuck in a high gear.  Usually it clunks a little when it
goes in gear. No clunking at all through the gears.

And smoke. And the oil level which was full, is now not after runnin it for
like ten minutes. No drips.

Damnitt.

Mike