So I was about to drop the pan and all and do a ATF change and I noticed some thing I wanted to get a second opinion on.

So when I go underneath I notice some leaking fluid on the bottom of the tranny? I assume its tranny fluid. Anyone have any idea how bad it is or is it nothing? http://ahsan.fotopic.net/p4710990.html
http://ahsan.fotopic.net/p4710991.html
http://ahsan.fotopic.net/p4710992.html
http://ahsan.fotopic.net/p4710994.html

Another question, I have read on this forum that IF there is a leak changing over to a syntheric tranny fluid will worsen the leak. So should I NOT go to synthetic in this case?

 

Looks like minor seepage from the photos. I assume it's not dripping and the fluid level is full.

How many miles are on the car and has the transmission been serviced before now?

I assume the vehicle is still under the 5 yr 60K powertrain warranty, so you may want to have your local dealer inspect the leak before doing anything.

Synthetics won't "worsen" the leak, but switching now will give the dealer a reason to shift the blame to you.

I recommend you have the dealer examine, diagnose and document the leak before making your decision.

 

Actually the warranty has expired, its a '98 with aobut 66K on it. Ya its not dripping and the fluid level is full. I am thinking it could be a faulty gasket which would be a pain to replace...so I donno if I should worry too much about it?

 

Recommend you wash off the oil/dirt residue and service the transmission with a quality petroleum-based ATF. Nissan fluid will run you more than standard commercial off-the-shelf products, but less than a quality synthetic such as AMSOIL or Mobil 1. If after you service it (drop and clean the pan, etc) it is not leaking, then I think you would be safe to switch to a synthetic...at that point you wouldn't have to drop the pan again, so it would be pretty easy.