Port on top of transmission...

[emore93]

I believe that is a vent.
It prevents pressure from building up and blowing the seals out as the fluid warms up.

[itsnotanova]

Originally Posted by emore93

I believe that is a vent.
It prevents pressure from building up and blowing the seals out as the fluid warms up.

^^Correct^^
To me that's a sign your trans is getting too hot. That's if it's coming out that vent. If you're tracking your car a lot, you might want to invest in a trans cooler. Trust me, you don't want to be looking for another 6 speed. The 2000+ 5 speeds are dime-a-dozen though.

[Pbastian]

Alright...thanks for that quick response!! I figured it was some sort of "relief" port, but the tranny isn't under pressure. It would then overflow because of heat expansion. Fair enough. It is a stock 5-speed manual, original 2000 Boxster hardware.

So, here's my next question...if it is overflowing from heat, wouldn't it be gear oil? Gear oil is pretty viscous, no? What I saw on the floor, and dripping off the base of the tranny/engine connection was thin(ner), and light, amber colored. At first, I was worried that I had a RMS leak...but I am now convinced this came from above and ran down. Now regretting not taking a closer look at the fluid on the floor at the track garage.