Power Steering Leak (57 thunderbird)

yblock57

yblock57

Senior Member
Howdy Fellas —

Having an issue with ATF pushing out around the cap on my reservoir under acceleration. The can was resealed a few years ago and hasn't had any issues until lately. At idle it's fine, but once engine speed increases it starts seeping out.

The control valve was replaced a couple of years ago due to a bad leak with a rebuilt unit from concourse parts. Never had an issue with over pressurization. Fluid level is correct and not overfilled. It doesn't appear to leak when the wheel is turned, just with engine sped up. Link to video below.

Thoughts?

https://youtu.be/DC0oJIFc9jI
 
1) Does the filler cap have a gasket? I can't remember ... :confused:

2) Plugged filter

3) Pump pressure relief valve defective

4) Restriction in pressure side of system
 
I bought a 64 Tbird once and there was no filter in reservoir and it leaked like that. After I found a filter it quit. As to why yours would just start leaking is a mystery to me, in the video it looks like the belt to it is a little loose, may have just been the view.
 
KULTULZ said:
1) Does the filler cap have a gasket? I can't remember ... :confused:

2) Plugged filter

3) Pump pressure relief valve defective

4) Restriction in pressure side of system
Click to expand...


1) cap has gasket in good shape
2) filter was replaced when can was resealed
3) how can I check this?
4) how can I verify this?

Thanks
 
5851a said:
I bought a 64 Tbird once and there was no filter in reservoir and it leaked like that. After I found a filter it quit. As to why yours would just start leaking is a mystery to me, in the video it looks like the belt to it is a little loose, may have just been the view.
Click to expand...


I have a filter in there. Was replaced when can was resealed. I tend to leave belts a little on the looser side to keep from loading up bearings on accessories. Nothing squeals so should be ok.
 
KULTULZ said:
Does the filler cap have a gasket? I can't remember ... :confused:
. . .
Click to expand...
The PS reservoir cap on my '55 Bird has a full sized rubber gasket inside the top and doesn't leak.
It's a pretty snug fit putting it on.
 

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yblock57 said:
3) how can I check this?
4) how can I verify this?

Thanks
Click to expand...

You need to have a pressure gauge to isolate the problem. The procedure is fully described in the SHOP MANUAL. Better to analyze it rather than throw parts at it ($$$).
 

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I did notice pump didn't sound stressed. Completely forgot there were pressure tests. Maybe a test to diagnose a stick valve as suggested but I have no idea where a person would have it done or buy the tools.
 
I know KULTULZ posted the picture prior, but here it is again with the description. Hope it helps.
 

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You're more than welcome.

That is only a basic tutorial and can get more involved on later model cars. But for an EATON PUMP/BENDIX STEERING it is very basic.

Another consideration would be a cooler depending on how hot the fluid gets.
 
dmsffr — you had the fix. My cap wasn't as tight as it should've been. I gently bent the tabs up on the cap and it fits a lot snugger now. No more leaks!

Thanks to all who chimed in. Appreciate all the helpful folks on this site.
 
KULTULZ said:
You're more than welcome.

That is only a basic tutorial and can get more involved on later model cars. But for an EATON PUMP/BENDIX STEERING it is very basic.

Another consideration would be a cooler depending on how hot the fluid gets.
Click to expand...

Mine had been on for a coupe of years now with no issues, but it is always to have access to good videos, just in case.
 
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