Transmission Leak

Equipment: 89 Sport 351w – IRM-40A (angle) 1.23:1 transmission – 650 hours – already switched to Dex trans fluid from 20w (by previous owner who I don’t know if he switched correctly or not?). Had the boat for a year with no transmission problems or issues.

I was getting ready to go out on the water and checked the transmission fluid level at the garage. It was hard to tell where the fluid was by using the old eyeballs but when I checked with my finger there was fluid on the dipstick. It seemed low to me so I added some fluid not a lot at all (about a 1/16 of a quart). At the boat landing I start like normal and while the motor was heating up in neutral I noticed an interesting whine from the transmission. I popped the dog house and notices transmission fluid on the top of the transmission by the seal pictured below. Turned the boat off and went back to the garage, equals a great day at the river! Upon further inspection of the leaking area it looked as if the fluid was coming out of the accumulator hose at the base (pictured below). I snapped some pictures and raced to the computer to do some research. I had a lot of bad thoughts going through my head, bad seal, have I been running with no transmission fluid, how much is this going to cost me, among other choice thoughts.   I called Eric in the morning and talked a little bit about the issue he calmed me down some (thanks!). My plan now is to check the transmission cooler for leaks, possibly take off the accumulator hose or (buzzing suppressor which ever you prefer).   

My questions: Anyone have a similar experience? What did you do? Can you put thread sealer on all the threads? Would it be a good idea to check the fluid pressure in the lines? How do you suggest doing that? Can I remove the buzzing suppressor?

Thanks - Scott

Removed the transmission cooler and checked it for leaks...No leaks! Replaced the cooler cleaned the housing and filled with fluid. Started the boat and in neutral it started leaking from the threads of the accumulator hose/housing. I'm going to try to plug it and see if I get buzzing. If I get buzzing I will replace the accumulator hose and Teflon tape the threads.

yes