I have a 2.3L quad 4 and my power steering is leaking! I acually have to fill it up about every three days and before I try and solve the problem hopefully you guys can fill me in on different things to look for! I dont think it is the rack and pinion (THANK GOD) because when I look over the line I can see the power steering laying on different engine componets which tell me the problem is abouve the rack and pinion. Hopefully theres a leak in the line that would be and easy fix.
Anyways im not exacly abouve the average joe when it comes to an engine so any helpful information would be highly appreciated!
NATE NELSON
Well nate, How is youre hydrualic lines, to the power steering pump, Usually the common places of leaking signs are are in the inner rack & pinion seals where the pinion boots cover the tie Rod arms, If their is to much fluid covering the area just get a can of degreaser clean off old grime, Then you will get a confirm answer where its leaking from.
Good Luck
Keep us updated.
Hey nate, i actually had this problem with my 2.4. I found that it was the return line to the pump from the rack and pinion (right where the line joins the resevoir). So, i had a broken part inside the hose which seals it to the resevoir, and the result was the replacement of the entire pump because the resevoir and that part that was broken is all one piece. Also, dont let that pump run dry, you dont wanna have to replace a whole rack, just keep it topped up, take it to a mechanic, and have them do a check for you. Also, check your pressure line (the one that goes down and underneath the pump itself) to see if the clamp has come loose. be sure to check at all ends, meanign both lines (return/pressure) at the pump and the rack. Good luck man!
thanks for the help guys...these tips helps give me more things to look for! If anybody else has anything to add please feel free. THANKS
ive had power steering inssues on both of my cavaliers. In both times ive fixed it. Ive had pumps themselves go bad. Or on BOTH CARS. the return hose seems to get too close to header and melt a small hole in it or something (great gm design) Ive replaced both pumps and return hose (major PITA on an automatic) Since there is pressure in the lines-
turn your car on
have a friend turn your wheel back and fourth
try to see where its leaking from ect even a pinhole leak should squirt out alot when wheel is fully turned.
Hopefully this helps.
In the meantime you can try lucas power steering condition and stop leak. Im not a fan of stop leaks but that is a product i dont mind using its like a thick gel type of stuff even adding it made my steeering alot more smoother and no hard spots anywhere ( i didnt use it for a leak)
Also check the ends of all hoses every hose has an oring that could of broke look for fluid dripping from hose ends as friend turns the wheel.
Ive never had any leaks or problems with rack and pinion so i havent worked on that part of the car couldnt help ya there
Hope it helps
Brandon-thanks for the advice! You gave me some good helpful information! Im acually going to look at it thursday evening so ill keep you guys updated on what the problem is. Thanks to all of you!
NATE NELSON
