Hey everyone, I just got my dad’s old ‘87 Camry Wagon, and I noticed a small leak around the transmission fluid pan. I’m thinking of replacing it with a new pan and gasket. The Toyota repair manual says to ‘install magnets in pan’ (page AT-40). I assume the magnets are already in the old pan and I just transfer them to the new one? Any tips or advice would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!
You don’t need to replace the magnets, just clean them up and reuse them. Take a pic before cleaning so you remember the layout. Also, I wouldn’t recommend using a cork gasket—those tend to leak over time. Is there a specific reason you’re replacing the pan?
@Maverick
Thanks, COR! The old pan has a dent from when the previous owner drove over a curb. I already got an aftermarket pan and an OEM gasket. Fingers crossed it all fits okay.
@Maverick
Ah, that makes sense. Just make sure the aftermarket pan fits properly—it can be hit or miss sometimes.
FYI, there’s no such thing as an OEM gasket for these. Toyota used FIPG (Form-In-Place Gasket) instead of actual gaskets. You could probably keep the old pan, clean it up, paint it, and reinstall with RTV. It might save you some trouble.
@Claire
Oh, I didn’t know that. I thought the gasket I got was OEM. Is RTV easy to use? I’ve never worked with it before.
@Claire
Yeah, RTV is pretty straightforward. Just clean both surfaces really well, apply a thin bead, and let it cure before adding fluid. Lots of tutorials out there if you need a visual guide!
Aftermarket pans can be tricky. I’ve had issues with them fitting poorly. OEM pans for older models are discontinued, so you might have to check salvage yards if the aftermarket one doesn’t work out.
Frey said:
Aftermarket pans can be tricky. I’ve had issues with them fitting poorly. OEM pans for older models are discontinued, so you might have to check salvage yards if the aftermarket one doesn’t work out.
Agreed. Assume most aftermarket parts for these older Toyotas will have fitment issues unless you know the original manufacturer.
Frey said:
Aftermarket pans can be tricky. I’ve had issues with them fitting poorly. OEM pans for older models are discontinued, so you might have to check salvage yards if the aftermarket one doesn’t work out.
Yep, that’s why I stockpile OEM parts when I find them. They’re disappearing fast. Good luck with the pan!
BTW, if you want smoother shifting, try using AMSOIL’s synthetic ATF. It’s a bit pricey but worth it.
Maverick said:
BTW, if you want smoother shifting, try using AMSOIL’s synthetic ATF. It’s a bit pricey but worth it.
Thanks for the tip! I’ll look into it. Never thought fluid could make that much of a difference.
Maverick said:
BTW, if you want smoother shifting, try using AMSOIL’s synthetic ATF. It’s a bit pricey but worth it.
It really does. I switched to synthetic in my ‘90 Camry, and the difference was night and day.
Oh, one more thing—if you’re at a salvage yard, check for A140E pans. They’re pretty common and should fit if you need a replacement.
Frey said:
Oh, one more thing—if you’re at a salvage yard, check for A140E pans. They’re pretty common and should fit if you need a replacement.
Good call. I’ll keep that in mind if the aftermarket one doesn’t work. Appreciate the advice!