So I have a 2000 Lexus ls400 and I’ve recently replace the rear main, front pump seal, front pump bearing and torque converter. I’ve installed the transmission 3 times already but every time it’s installed it would still leak (from bellhousing) I’ve seen people say it may not be seated right but I’ve spun and pushed so many times I’m sure I did seat it right. From what it seems like to me is the torque converter gets pushed out of place some how because every time I’ve taken it out the torque converter seems to be loose not how it was installed.(Please help)

 

Leaks transmission fluid or engine oil?

 

Leaks transmission fluid

 

Any chance the torque converter was not seated corrected when you bolted the tranny to the engine? If it isn't and you use the bolts to force the two together you'll crush the transmission oil pump and the pieces/shards can cut up the seals.

 

Did you ever figure it out??

 

For future reference. I took these images in 2014 when I rebuilt my GM 4L60E after a 3-4 clutch (very common) failure.

When removing/installing the transmission, make a converter retaining strap like the one below. I just had some angle iron handy. Drill thru holes on the ends; drill and tap a hole in the center (measure!). Bolt the strap across the bell housing. The center nut and bolt are then screwed in against the converter nose to hold it in the pump. It doesn't have to be tight; just enough to prevent fore/aft movement. Use this during trans removal and installation.


GM Overdrive - Torque converter retention.

The converter "snout" should have square notches that need to fit into matching ears in the pump rotor (or similar pump drive design). If these aren't correctly mated together, the ears will fracture during trans installation, rendering the pump useless.


GM Overdrive - Pump "ears" (pump halves separated)