Automatic gearbox leaking and not locking up

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busby
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Post Sun Dec 30, 2012 6:40 pm

I have a 1990 325i cab auto which was originally converted from a 320i by the previous owner. Not sure if the box was changed at the same time. The label on the side of the auto box is stamped 4 H 22.

The problems I have are
1) an auto transmission leak which seems worse when standing after a time. Seems to be leaking mostly at the front of the box,
2) the auto box does not lock up above 56 mph

Any views on the above problems and the best course of action?

Thanks[/b]
Andyboy
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Post Sun Dec 30, 2012 6:58 pm

Almost certainly a converter problem. The leak will probably be the front seal but tend to leak worse when running. Ideally you need to clean it all up and find the leak - it could be one of the cooler pipes where they fit into the box. the lock up clutch can play up when the fluid level is low. Is it switchable with the rotary 123 dial on the console? If not it could well be the 320i box.
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busby
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Joined: Sat Sep 25, 2010 11:00 pm

Post Sun Dec 30, 2012 7:24 pm

Thanks. There are no control switched for the gearbox. I will give the box a good clean and give it a run to try and find the source of the leak.
The leak appeared to be worse when the transmission is at the max level and less if at the minimum level. The auto box lock up has not worked I think as long as I've owned the car (3 years and 10 k miles).
Just as a check on fluid levels are there different filler tubes/dip sticks, as the engine has been swapped could have a mismatch here?