Pictures of my torque converter seal change...EXCELLENT PHOTOS OF ENGINE/TRANSMISSION

[jonmark1985]

I usually just use a screw driver to pull the front seal out. Be patient if putting the seal back in with just a hammer, take your time and tap the whole way around the seal.

[mark v]

I am making this a Sticky due to the good photos of how the Engine and Transmission get removed.

[jacobyjas]

I've been ordering parts online from a Ford dealer in Washington state that gives a discount of 25% or more. Most parts can be ordered from their internet site ("Ford Parts" At Bowen Scarff - Formally 1stfordparts.com .). If they don't show it, you can send them an email and they will get you a quote. It takes a few days for shipping, but if you can plan ahead, it will save you some cash.
I've also done OK buying used part on eBay.

[tino]

You should replace the plugs and wires if you can. It is a lot easier while you have it out like that.

[firstwindstar02]

lol i did. im not a noob.

[Ingenius]

New to the Forum, salute you all. Followed with interest the articles on the trans removal and fixing but never found if the fix was successfull and the leak stopped. Please advise.

At 160000 miles I rebuilt the 3.8l engine (total cost including new brake hydraulics $900) and now at 180000 decided to install a used transmission to replace my noisy one and trying to stop the blinking overdrive light. Do not believe when you read you cannot remove the engine upwards, I have done it now three times and, having to do it again, I am becoming an expert at it (if anybody is interested on the procedure contact me on tesaro@comcast.net). After the "new" trans install oil started pouring from the converter housing. Stupid I, I told myself, changed the side shaft seals but not the front one by the converter. Well I have done it now and still leaks. I do not give up lightly on problems, and hopefully will be able to through a bit more light on the subject once I get another go at it. Until then I will keep on searching to see if anybody had it figured out.

[Brenda]

Sometimes the convertor has a groove where the seal rides and won't seal very good. Is yours leaking as bad or a little less? Also we've seen some convertors leaking at the weld near the seal. You can take it to a tranny shop and have it pressure checked.

[dadvango]

awsome engine pics. what a challenge. it great to have actual pics of the parts and process. hopefully though ,i will not be doing that any time soon!

[2kwindstar]

what a challenging task! my TC failed on 6xk and paid $2k to have it rebuilt. I can see why it cost that much now

[turboro]

I'm having trouble with my 2003 Windstar, I think its the pump-shaft or the torque converter...as the torque-converter bolts can be accessed through the tranny oil-pan, can it be removed from the vehicle without removing the whole tranny like you did? Are there any tell-tale signs that would tell me if its the pump, pump-shaft or torque converter? I've been quoted some rediculous prices for this job....Any repair-shops that you'd stand by for good service honesty and workmanship?