Stopping a Slow Leak of Power Steering Fluid

[SSTJ]

I have a slow leak of Power Steering fluid, which seems to be coming from the pump itself. The fluid is darker than should be, which might be from deterioration of a seal?

Question: In the same way that high-mileage oil, or additives, can restore seals to stop a slow leak, can I use something like this product? Looks like Jerry Bransford once did the same.

Note: My manual says to use "only petroleum fluids formulated for minimum effect on rubber hoses", and not to use ATF.

 

[macleanflood]

That or STP stop leak, sure.

Although redoing o-rings isn't a terrible job.

-Mac

 

[SSTJ]

Thanks @macleanflood.

I haven't removed the PS pump before, but it doesn't look too bad. Maybe just hard to work around the enormous fan shroud of my 2.5. Have you done this and have any tips? But I may just try the stop-leak for now.

 

[red02tj]

I had success when I’ve used it. On the 4.0 it’s not hard to replace the pump. Good excuse for an electric ratchet if you don’t have one for the long pump bolts, and a good opportunity to replace the belt if it’s due. Careful removing the pulley, it’s easy to chip and make sure you bleed the pump if you do swap or drain all the fluid.

 

[SSTJ]

I had success when I’ve used it. On the 4.0 it’s not hard to replace the pump. Good excuse for an electric ratchet if you don’t have one for the long pump bolts, and a good opportunity to replace the belt if it’s due. Careful removing the pulley, it’s easy to chip and make sure you bleed the pump if you do swap or drain all the fluid.

Which product did you use? Or did you use that same one I linked?

 

[macleanflood]

I replaced my steering box. I redid some o-rings at the time. I think I did this in the middle of the frame and tub swap...so I was completely cheating and just about everything was out of the way.

-Mac

 

[red02tj]

Which product did you use? Or did you use that same one I linked?

One you linked. And you can leave it in, no need to drain if it does stop the leak.