93formulabird

iTrader: (2)

I a while ago I noticed the power steering resevoir was low, and I also noticed oil surrounding the cap. I figured someone had missed pouring it in or something. It was pretty low, as it didnt even show up on the dipstick which is attached to the cap.

I filled it up all the way to the correct level, and everytime I go to take off the cap I get a "pshhh" noise as pressure is released. I also noticed a lot more oil redisdue over the resevoir and the surrounding areas. Like it leaked out or seeped out somehow.

Is that pressure noise normal, also what would cause this to happen?

I noticed that one of the boots on the steering rack looks like it has oil on the bottom of it. I do not know it is leaking or not. But it is not dripping, and the fluid level seems to be constant in the resevoir.

LTSpeed

Mine boils out every time I hit 120 for more than a couple of seconds. This is a common LT1 issue. They overpressurize (and overheat) the PS fluid at high rpm. It's a design flaw. (or GM just being cheap)

93formulabird

iTrader: (2)

Hmm I have been doing a lot of high rpms lately. Stupid manual is addictive.

Would changing fluid to some kind of high temp stuff help the problem?

streetwarrior96

change the high and low pressure lines. mine was doing the same. I was going through power steering pumps. I changed them and seems to be working fine.

93formulabird

iTrader: (2)

What do you mean by "change"? Buy new ones of the same size?

383LT1S10

I would guess he is refering to what happens to rubber brakel ines as well when they get old and deteriate. Flakes of rubber can become lodged in the hose and cause fluid resistance and thus overheating the pump.

streetwarrior96

ok "replace" the line

LTSpeed

I don't buy the "replace the lines" idea unless they're clearly damaged. But as I said in my earlier post, these pumps overpressurize the fluid at high rpm, which causes it to boil out.

There are 4 options I know of...

1. Power Steering Cooler (many types)
2. Redline Steering Fluid (very high boiling point)
3. Underdrive pulley to drive the pump slower
4. Turn One power steering pump w/reduced flow ($150)

Only the last one is a permanent fix.

streetwarrior96

well dude what can I say, it was my fix. but oh well

93formulabird

iTrader: (2)

Ill prolly just try the redline steering fluid. How do you drain the power steering fluid anyhow?

LTSpeed

Sorry, wasn't trying to be rude. I guess I could've worded that better!

OneFast97Z

I just finished installing a p/s cooler on my ride since this will now be my third pump