I noticed that there was a small leak on the return line from the radiator to the transmission right where the line was supposed to connect to the radiator. I decided to replace the nipple connector thing and bought the small plastic part ($18!?) at the Jeep dealer. I had a bitch of a time taking out the transmission line and a bitch of a time putting it back in. Upon driving for 15 minutes or so, the connection busted and fluid leaked out all over the place. Once again, I have a bitch of a time trying to get it back in. So there are one of two things I'm thinking about doing. 1. Try to force the nipple back in or 2. there is a 22mm connector that the nipple fits into (that fits a wrench), it could be a permanent part of the transmission or it could be loosened and tightened. I tried loosening it but to no avail. I don't want to damage the transmission by working it too hard and breaking it so I'm wondering if it's a part that I can put some energy and effort into loosening and possibly allow the nipple connector to fit in easier so I can tighten it afterwards. Or 3. If there is something else I should be doing, don't hesitate to let me know. Thanks for your help!!!

I noticed that there was a small leak on the return line from the radiator to the transmission right where the line was supposed to connect to the radiator. I decided to replace the nipple connector thing and bought the small plastic part ($18!?) at the Jeep dealer. I had a bitch of a time taking out the transmission line and a bitch of a time putting it back in. Upon driving for 15 minutes or so, the connection busted and fluid leaked out all over the place. Once again, I have a bitch of a time trying to get it back in. So there are one of two things I'm thinking about doing. 1. Try to force the nipple back in or 2. there is a 22mm connector that the nipple fits into (that fits a wrench), it could be a permanent part of the transmission or it could be loosened and tightened. I tried loosening it but to no avail. I don't want to damage the transmission by working it too hard and breaking it so I'm wondering if it's a part that I can put some energy and effort into loosening and possibly allow the nipple connector to fit in easier so I can tighten it afterwards. Or 3. If there is something else I should be doing, don't hesitate to let me know. Thanks for your help!!!
HI CHECK IF THE LINE IS STEEL & THERE IS 2-3 INCHES STICKING OUT YOU CAN GO TO PARTS STORE & ASK FOR ---A FULL COMPRESSION FITTING & USE THIS TO RECONNECT YOUR LINE. TELL THEM WHAT YOU NEED IT FOR SO THEY CAN GIVE YOU THE RIGHT SIZE. IT IS A BRASS FITTING.IF YOU ASK THEM THEY WILL TELLYOU HOW ITS USED---(FULL COMPRESSION FITTING) HOPE THIS HELPS DALE jeepman600@aol.com

muchas gracious. I'll try it out tomorrow and let you know.

That stupid snap-on plastic quick connect fitting on the lower transmission coolant line going to the radiator I suppose???

I removed that thing intirely, both the top and the bottom.

Went to the local tractor repair/hydralic shop and had them make me two new fittings that have the right bend and extend about 4" from the radiator with a flair on the end. Got from them 300psi flexable (rubber) hydralic line and ran the hydralic line from the fitting to where it connects on the other metal line. Put two hose clamps (european style no-mar clamps) on each end and now no more leaks.

To do the top line (this line is one peice from radiator to transmission) you have to cut the metal line it connects to underneath the radiator. Do the same thing to it as you did to the bottom line.

No leaks, plenty of flex, away you go. Total cost $30!!!

Had I not dropped the $18, I would've started where you are. And while I was working I definitely saw better alternatives to the design of what I had to work with. Good news though, successful connection today. Pulled out the hose and then the brass connector. The design is hella f-ed up. It's nearly impossible to work on that thing, at least get any leverage and torque on it. Glad it's over though, this is one part of the car I would be glad to never work on again.



That stupid snap-on plastic quick connect fitting on the lower transmission coolant line going to the radiator I suppose???

I removed that thing intirely, both the top and the bottom.

Went to the local tractor repair/hydralic shop and had them make me two new fittings that have the right bend and extend about 4" from the radiator with a flair on the end. Got from them 300psi flexable (rubber) hydralic line and ran the hydralic line from the fitting to where it connects on the other metal line. Put two hose clamps (european style no-mar clamps) on each end and now no more leaks.

To do the top line (this line is one peice from radiator to transmission) you have to cut the metal line it connects to underneath the radiator. Do the same thing to it as you did to the bottom line.

No leaks, plenty of flex, away you go. Total cost $30!!!

Yep it's a little tight to work on in there. Glad you got it fixed.