Noob question regarding oil/trans leaks

[barberjb]

Just picked up a 2004 5.4L 4WD Eddie Bauer with ~63k for the wifey. It matched my '94 Explorer EB, and it was a good deal ($12k + tax,tags), but of course the dealer hid the leaks well. Thanks to all of you on the forum as I used the posted tips on things to look for when buying. I already have a list of a few things that I should be able to fix, like the clicking from the rear vents.

So as far as I can tell, I think I have a leak in the engine oil pan, and a leak from the torque converter underneath the dust cover (I have a 4R70W trans). I've attached the photo from underneath the car. I have not removed the dust cover yet, but it's very flimsy as I touched it and it pushed up into the opening easily. I don't have any history on the car, so I'm planning on having the 60k mile transmission service done, and I'm hoping that as part of that process, the leak will be fixed if it's just a drain plug that needs to be tightened a little more.

I'd appreciate everyone taking a look at the photo and giving your thoughts. Sorry its a ****** cell phone photo. Thanks!

 

[barberjb]

Well, even though no one gave a hoot to comment on the previous post, I thought I would give an update on the resolution. Turns out the previous owner had the torque converter replaced, and whoever did the work did not put a vent tube on. Dealership charged me just $250 for repair.

That's a Christmas miracle as far as I'm concerned.