I'm new here and have searched for something like what's happening to me with little results. I'm older and have a lot of experience working on automotive things. But I've only had my 97 f-150 4x4 4.6L 4RW70 for 2 months and here it is. First the front differential dribbles GL-5 all over my frame and front suspension from the vent. I've changed the fluid to synthetic 75w-90 and raised the vent up, it's better but still uncertain it's fixed. Second is my radio antenna cable is rusted out, was getting water from the mast into it? This issue is also new to me.

 

The only experiences I've had with fluid coming out of the vents was when the fluid was actually boiling. Does your fluid smell like natural gas now? If so, it's been boiling.

My neighbors seriously asked me if I had a natural gas leak when I had that happen (3 different times on an Explorer).

 

just the normal stinky smell of gear lube. The owners manual states to use a thermally stable fluid. Aren't they all ?