69 396 w/ coolant leak and tranny problem?

[Longhorn Paul]

Note: I am NOT a gear head but I'm trying to learn. Looks like I found my first opportunity.

Brand new owner - 5 days w/ the truck. Yesterday she blew off the lower hose that connects the transmission radiator(I think that's what it is) to the tranny and dropped about 5 qts of fluid. Wasn't able to get it completely tight heading out this morning to see if I can get her snug w/ the right tools this time. It was stone cold when it happened and I didn't get far. She seems to be driving alright now but I need to stop the leak.

Noticed there was coolant ON TOP of the engine block. Seems to be coming from this piece. What is this and how hard is it to replace?



Finally - I decided to double check the radiator (in light of this) and there isn't any coolant showing when I opened up the cap this morning. IOW, I look into the rad and can't see any coolant at all. Should I be able to? The expansion tank is completely empty.

Could use some advice / help please.

Paul