The Fordomatic on my '57 has leaked ever since I got it running. The leak drips from the lowest point on the bellhousing steadily as long as the engine is running, but it doesn't leak when the engine's off. On a recent drive I started feeling shift problems and sure enough the dipstick was dry and there was a huge puddle under the car. Clearly, the leak has escalated to a new level, with fluid streaming rather than dripping from the lowest point of the bellhousing with the engine running.

I have just finished removing the transmission only from the car (TC and housing still bolted up). The front pump seal, which I assumed to be the guilty party, looks ok; the surface it seals against is smooth and not worn; neither the TC nor the front pump gasket announce themselves plainly to be the culprit.

I still think the front pump/TC seal is the leak point, but I can't be certain that the TC itself or front pump to case gasket isn't guilty since I can't watch it leak while running. Something tells me that the converter is rarely a leak point, but that something could be wishful thinking.

What do you think is the probable cause, and what would you do in this situation? A full rebuild is not an option. I just want to stop leaking trans fluid everywhere.

Thanks!

1954 Crestline Victoria 312 4-bbl, 3-speed overdrive