power steering pump leaks - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 08-31-2002, 04:43 PM

my power steering pump leaks fluid,should I replace it or rebuild it? The rebuid kits are cheap but are the worth the trouble or should I just buy a pump?(1982 380 sel)

#2 08-31-2002, 06:55 PM

The pulley shaft seal on my 81/ 300SD leaked.
Messy, each time I pushed the hood release my fingers would be dirty from the fluid.

The remedy was simple enough, provided you have the means to press out the seal.
The whole thing took about 30 min.
No problems since. ( cheap fix)

#3 09-01-2002, 03:37 PM

Have you been using ATF or Power Steering fluid? Modern Dexron/Mercon has additives that are bad for your power steering seal. If you were using ATF, change to power steering fluid when you get it back together.

Good luck,

#4 09-01-2002, 05:56 PM

Have you ruled out the hoses? Mine had a slow, but steady leak until I replaced both. Dry as a bone now...

haasman · #5 09-01-2002, 09:11 PM

This one has my curiosity .... to what level did you fill the PS pump reservoir?

EricSilver · #6 09-02-2002, 02:01 PM

Larry --

My experience has been just the opposite. With ATF, no leak. With P/S, major leaks.

I understand there is a seal kit so I'll probably go that route, but does it require removing the pump? And if so, is that complicated?

Eric
1989 260E

#7 09-02-2002, 02:07 PM

If you insist on using ATF in spite of the warnings over the last few years about Dexron/Mercon not being good for your P/S seals, then do yourself a favor and find some Type A.

It never ceases to amaze me how ATF is seen as automotive, cure all Penicillin.

Good luck,

EricSilver · #8 09-02-2002, 08:27 PM

LArry,

I am not sold on ATF one way or another. i just want a fluid that stays in the pump.

Out of curiosity, what other cure-all "uses" are there for ATF? I promise not to employ any of them!