1996 Lincoln Town Car: Replacing the Rear Transmission Seal
Introduction
The rear transmission seal in a 1996 Lincoln Town Car prevents fluid from leaking out of the transmission. Over time, the seal can become worn or damaged, leading to leaks that can cause serious problems if not addressed. Replacing the rear transmission seal is a relatively simple process that can be completed in an afternoon with the right tools.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, you will need the following tools and materials:
* 10mm socket wrench
* 13mm socket wrench
* 15mm socket wrench
* 17mm socket wrench
* 1/2-inch drive ratchet
* 3/8-inch drive ratchet
* Flathead screwdriver
* Pry bar
* New rear transmission seal
* Transmission fluid
* Rags
* Drain pan
Safety First
Before you start working on your Town Car, make sure to take the following safety precautions:
* Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
* Allow the engine to cool down completely before you start working.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris.
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Remove the Driveshaft
* Use a 10mm socket wrench to remove the bolts that connect the driveshaft to the rear differential.
* Support the driveshaft with a pry bar or jack stand.
* Slide the driveshaft out of the transmission.
2. Remove the Transmission Pan
* Use a 15mm socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the transmission pan in place.
* Carefully pry the transmission pan off the transmission.
* Drain the transmission fluid into a drain pan.
3. Remove the Rear Transmission Seal
* Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the old rear transmission seal out of the transmission case.
* Be careful not to damage the transmission case.
4. Install the New Rear Transmission Seal
* Apply a thin layer of transmission fluid to the new rear transmission seal.
* Carefully press the new seal into the transmission case.
* Make sure the seal is seated properly.
5. Reinstall the Transmission Pan
* Clean the transmission pan and the mating surface on the transmission case.
* Apply a thin layer of gasket sealant to the pan gasket.
* Place the pan gasket on the transmission case.
* Reinstall the transmission pan and tighten the bolts to 8 ft-lbs.
6. Reinstall the Driveshaft
* Slide the driveshaft back into the transmission.
* Connect the driveshaft to the rear differential and tighten the bolts to 25 ft-lbs.
7. Add Transmission Fluid
* Add transmission fluid to the transmission until it reaches the proper level on the dipstick.
* Start the engine and run it for a few minutes to circulate the fluid.
* Check the transmission fluid level again and add more fluid if necessary.
8. Reconnect the Negative Battery Terminal
* Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
9. Test Drive
* Take the Town Car for a test drive to check for leaks.
* If you notice any leaks, stop driving and inspect the transmission for damage.
Conclusion
Replacing the rear transmission seal in a 1996 Lincoln Town Car is a relatively simple process that can be completed in an afternoon with the right tools. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself time and money by doing the job yourself.
