96 Taurus Transmission problems, I think?

[jpell8]

OK this is weird and just started happening today.

When I take a left turn, it seems that my transmission has trouble switching between gears ("tripping"), and causes the car to have a massive jolt during the process. This is ONLY on left turns.

It is interesting to note that I recently, as of about a week and a half ago, noticed some leakage from the transmission line. However, my tranny fluid levels are FINE. Also, I may be in need of an alignment soon, but I don't think thats the underlying cause of this trouble.

Any ideas?

[jpell8]

I really would appreciate some sort of response, the car is now making a loud noise similar to a vacuum cleaner ... I'm assuming there may be a relation.