On weekly inspection of the engine bay I have discovered that the power steering pump is leaking fluid, only slightly but enough to require top up within a week. Is this a common problem and does it mean a new PS pump? I don't know exactly where it's coming from but it seems to be from the base of the pump rather than the reservior (spelling?).

In the meantime what fluid should I top up the power steering with ?

Any suggestions before the steering gets rather heavy!!

Cheers
Dave

 

This is quite common, especially on earlier cars. The fluid can over heat when the car is used at high revs with frequent steering inputs... like on a country lane blast.

Try using a top grade fluid, like Castrol Automatic Transmission Fluid. It should be rated as at least Dextron II.

Silkolene have developed a fully synthetic fluid and it is curently on test with competition teams. Results from a mate who is testing say it sorts the problem completely.

 

Thanks Pete

Do you mean that I shouldn't worry about the leak and just top up the fluid? Will the pump 'reseal' itself when I stop having fun??!!!

Also did you receive my e-mail (sent 5.4.00 to enquires@scoobysport) regarding ordering a new speedo for my WRX?

Cheers
Dave

[This message has been edited by dave fairhurst (edited 13-04-2000).]