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Power steering fluid leak

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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 05:11 PM
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Default Power steering fluid leak

Got a couple drops of fluid coming from the two fittings I'm pointing too. Should there be tape on the threads? Doesn't look like there is any.

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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 05:46 PM
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I would just snug them up a little with a line wrench, of course.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 05:46 PM
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Originally Posted by sunflower 1972
I would just snug them up a little with a line wrench, of course.
I checked. They are tight.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 05:54 PM
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The hose ends are an inverted cone. The PSCV hose openings are cone shaped. Therefore, you need to JUST GENTLY SNUG the nut fitting as the cone shape prevents the hose from leaking, not the threads.


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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 06:29 PM
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Yes, looks to be pipe threads. Pipe threads should have teflon tape on them (I think). It is leaking where the threads screw in to the housing. Guess it can't hurt to put some on. Thanks.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 06:44 PM
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But, they're not pipe threads.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 07:16 PM
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I didnt use any teflon tape on mine.... theyre all dry. Maybe someone overtightened yours at some point and now the part where the line seats is a little distorted or worn. You will probably need new hoses....

Last edited by 81c3; Sep 1, 2023 at 07:23 PM.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 09:20 PM
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I haven't had to use them but I know for brake line inverted flares they sell brass washers that are formed to the 45 degree to help seal rough fittings. Don't know where they get them but I bet a google search might get you a hit.
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Old Sep 1, 2023 | 09:58 PM
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Do not use teflon or pipe dope, or anything like that....These are flare fittings, and the seal comes from the cone seating into the flare in the tubing. The threads are not where it seals.
Make sure your threads are completely clean and that there are no deformities in the flare or the cone...and try again...
Leaking is usually because of a bad flare (split) or over tightening.

Last edited by n2h2o2; Sep 1, 2023 at 11:18 PM.
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Old Sep 2, 2023 | 03:12 AM
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Try loosening the fitting, then retighten, it worked on my car. If the hoses still leak, you should get new hoses. With new hoses, use a flare wrench and tighten only a bit. Start the engine and if you see a leak, tighten the fitting a little, until the leak stops. Be sure to thread the fitting with out cross threading.
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Old Sep 2, 2023 | 04:47 AM
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I don't know about this "Gently snug" the lines suggestion. I tighten the living #@$%#@ out of them so they don't leak. And then they don't!
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Old Sep 2, 2023 | 06:15 PM
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Probably a dumb question but when I remove them will the ps fluid start pouring out. Or just a little.
All the hoses are fairly new from the previous owner. Could be he over tighten them
Thanks for all the help!
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Old Sep 2, 2023 | 08:11 PM
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When you remove them yes all your fluid will fall out. Slowly if you leave the cap on the reservoir. Much quicker if you remove the cap.
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Old Sep 3, 2023 | 11:04 AM
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What Elired is referring to in post 10 is an old trick, proven winner, I read on this forum before.
In theory, loosening the fitting would sometimes flush any crap around the threads. Then tighten 'er down again.
Works? 90% of the time.
Costs? Zero
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