Big Dave

During an oil change appointment with my P-wrench (hey, I was busy). I told him that I was losing PS fluid in small amounts. An inspection of the PS reservoir confirmed this.

I wanted to know if the leak was from the rack going bad or just a bad hose. He hoisted the car and pulled back the driver's side boot. No fluid spilled out, but I could see that it was moist in there. The alternator ventilation hose was soaked in fluid, though.

My P-wrench thinks that the rack is bad because of the moisture in the driver's side boot. The passenger side is dry. He thinks I also have a leaky hose.

My question: do you think my rack is gone? I'd like to hold off getting a new rack unless its necessary or I'll cause more expensive problems. As for the hose, I'll get that done and see what happens.

I don't mind adding some PS (ATF) fluid every few weeks.

Your thoughts?

Randy V

Bad hose/connection to the PS fluid reervoir.

The reservoir sits directly above the alternator cooling hose, explaining the soaked hose. If there was deminimus 'moisture' in the rack boot, I suspect your mechanic is looking to soak you as well.

Incendier

Right on, Randy.

Dave, believe me, if your rack seals were bad, it would be drippingly obvious. A little moisture in the boots is considered normal per the P technical bulletin on the topic.

Don't spring for the rack, and maybe consider a new wrench.

Big Dave

Thanks for the advice. I'll look into a new wrench, although he seemed like a nice enough guy.

SO: can anyone recommend a P-wrench around Detroit?

Jay Wellwood

Perfect match up...I suspect the return hose from the rack to the heat exchanger (in my 87).

I found this hose to be leaking on my car - pretty simple to fix if you have a dremel tool...no need to spend high $ for this one since it is not under any significant pressure.