Okay folks, got a little issue I'd like to nip in the bud before it turns into a bigger issue.
My power steering unit has been using ATF fluid. Seems like I need to top it off every few weeks to a month. I didn't think much of it, heck, just top it off every so often no big deal.
Today, I'm under the van because I have this pesky coolant return hose clamp that likes to loosen up and drip coolant. The radiator light went on around a corner and when I popped the engine compartment open, sure enough there were some drops of coolant around that hose and I got a few turns on the clamp with a screwdriver.
Thats how I got here. I went under the van with my flashlight just to make sure there weren't any other drip spots and I noticed my alternator has ATF (cherry juice!) on it.
Now that kinda sucks! Now the whole issue with the power steering seems a little more serious since it seems like my alternator is getting a bath it doesn't want!
I know there's a hose that can go out and do this, but, I'm pretty sure the previous owner of the van replaced this hose with the expensive factory one before I bought the van. I need to check my papers on this but I seem to remember this.
Any other places to look for as far as leaks w/ the power steering? I couldn't see much underneath. Right now the power steering is empty, I ran out of ATF, so I don't think its leaking too much but it has leaked enough over the past months that there is still some on the alternator.
Any leads/ideas would be great!
mark in Philly
1987 4wd runnin' strong!