can i just pull the cover and replace the gasket? while i've got it open i should also replace the filter right? is this hard to do, and is there anything else i will need to do, or should do while i have it open? bear in mind, im a novice and i dont want to fiddle around too much with the inside of my transmission. its a 700r4 with a b&m street/strip shift kit. would it be worth the investment to get a new pan or anything like that while i'll have it apart anyhow?

 

If it is leaking from the pan, yeah, just drop the pan off, take the filter out, clean the tranny and pan off, and reassemble. The torque sequence and torque specs are important to follow if you dont want it to leak. Cross tighten all bolts to 12 foot pounds, no more, and after about 500 miles, retighten them once more to ensure proper seal.

 

Be sure to look closely at the pan where the gasket sits. Sometimes they are overtightened and it warps the pan rail. If so, a few careful whacks with the hammer will put it back in shape.