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Confirmed is the fact that my old 84' 5th Avenue does have a power steering
fluid leak. In question is how I'm going to fix this problem. Currently I'm
having to fill it with transmission fluid (apparently works just as well,
and much cheaper) and do so at least once or twice a day. This is becoming
messy, monotonous and old, so I am now looking into fixing this. My only
problem is that I don't know exactly how. I know first i need to know WHAT
is leaking, but I'm not even that far. For now I think I'll simply browse
pictures, diagrams, etc until i find out what it is thats leaking, but if
anyone can aid me in finding out whats leaking and how to replace it please
do! I understand the costly repair prices mechanics ask, so I want to fix
this myself if possible. Because this is an 'older' vehicle, I assume the
seals are worn and need replacing...then again, the resevoire may be
damaged just as easily...regardless, I dont know how to tell either way!
Please Help!
Dark-Flare
Well if you're going through that much fluid the leak should be real easy
to find. The power steering system is relatively simple, basically the
pump, pressure line, return line, and steering gear. Actually it would
have been quicker to find the leak than type your post. I always wonder
why people ask before they look.
As to what it will take to fix it that all depends on the problem. The
reason qualified technicians charge the prices they do is because they have
the knowledge, experience and equipment to do the job quickly and
efficiently. You just might be better off financially to take it to a good
shop.
vwhobo
I was looking into washing my car the other day and noticed that there was
far more dirt than I anticipated, maybe VWHOBO could recommend a good car
wash where a "professional" could just do the job for me. That way I will
not learn anything in the process. In addition, I can depart with some
more of my hard earned money at the same time.
My S10 blazer has a power steering line leak(high pressure side) and I was
searching for posts on the web of others that have had the same problem. I
found my answers but in the process discovered 2 replies by the above
mentioned member. The Inet is a wonderful resource, lets add to it instead
of throwing our hands up int he air and saying "it's too difficult, call a
mechanic". Yes, there are instances where a mechanic should be used to do
the job but a power steering pump or line replacement and system purge
shouldn't be ruled out for the weekend warrier.
Advise, don't discourage.
chillrich
Lets be nice - VW for one reason or another has not posted in the past
couple of months. I agree the internet is a valuable tool - Considering
the problem is over 1 yr old, I hope by now it is fixed.
In the unlikely event it is not or someone picks this up on a web search,
are there any pointers you could add to help someone find fluid leaks and
fix them?
tbaxleyjr
Old thread revival...and you get upset? :screwy: :screwy:
.
.
BavarianWheels
Maybe I was a bit harsh but I do feel that we need to share info not throw
our hands up in the air. My Blazer suffered a heater core leak that I
didn't know if I could tackle until I read a few posts, 5 hours of patient
labour later I had accomplished the task( it's all good after 16 months of
service).
According to the mechanics, the Chevy OEM high pressure hoses on the power
steering, oil lines etc. are succeptable to leaks. My 2002 Blazer is
showing signs of seepage at 40,000 miles. Replacing these lines should not
be too tough, my '89 Blazer took a while(3 hours) due to the tricky
routing. Best bet to diagnose is wipe off the suspect line and check again
after the vehicle has been brought up to operating temperature.
This link is for Ford replacement but still outlines athe correct
procedure.
http://4wheeldrive.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http%3A%2F%2Fkevin
-long.tripod.com%2Fpowers.html
Our parts supplier listed the high pressure line at about $23.
Hope this HELPS!!!
I will post again when job is complete.
chillrich
I appreciate the statement about sharing information. The purpose of a
forum such as this is to share information and help others as well as have
a little fun too.
The reader of any information in a forum such as this has a few
responsibilities. First is to decide if the information is applicable to
the particular situation. Next decide if it is detailed enough and
accurate (does it make sense?). Last, the reader has to decide if they have
or is willing to acquire the skills, knowledge , tools, and equipment to
do the job right and do it without getting hurt or screwing up the car
I agree with you - replacing a powersteering hose should be about the same
no matter who built the car. The procedures for "burping" the air out of
the system should be universal too. Essentially this involves turning the
steering wheel "lock to lock" (al the way to the right and all the way to
the right) several times keeping an eye on the fluid level
For those doing this for the first time, use the correct fluid. Some cars
use power-steering fluid, others use ATF
tbaxleyjr
