1996 4.0 trans leak.

[royando]

1996 4.0 4WD 4R55E 180k trans fluid all over bottom of trans and back of vehicle. Had to add a quart of ATF to get home. Last service was 10k ago. Dropped the pan, fluid was red and no burnt smell. Fair amount of fine metallic on the magnet. OD light is not on.
Is the metal tube hanging down next to the pan the breather?
Could I clean it up and route the breather into a catch can to verify this is where it is comming from?
Is it time for a rebuild?
Thanks

 

[svt4cam]

Probably the bottom of the dipstick tube your looking at. When I replaced my 5r55e the dipstick tube had rusted through and needed replaced. that may be the same problem your having

 

[royando]

So where is the breather on a 1996 4R55E? Would anyone have a picture?