Power Steering Pump Leak

[Svenerachi]

wasn't sure if I should list this in DIY or here, but whatever...

My P/S pump has been leaking for the last few months and just started squeaking/jittering and I'm wondering if its a simple gasket replacement or if I need an all new p/s pump?

it sprays p/s fluid all over the engine bay when the engine is cold and I need to turn the wheels all the way when first starting up (doing a 3-point to get out of neighborhood)

if there is a post that addresses this, just tell me, the search function doesn't seem to be working for me right now

[Strakes]

Before you replace the pump, make sure none of the hoses are leaking. Usually if it's leaking in the power steering, it only shows up under some pressure. So have a friend get in the car and after starting, have him/her turn the wheel back and forth while you look for leaks. You may find that a clamp is loose or a rubber hose is cracked. If not, replacing the pump is a very easy diy job. Remove the belts, unhook the hoses and unbolt the pump. When you get everything put back in, fill it up with fluid, start it up, and turn the wheel back and forth to purge it of any air. Get a used pump from a salvage yard for cheap. If you don't have any near you: I picked up a used one from user lmdew at http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/
He runs a salvage yard that has a lot of subarus in Colorado. I picked mine up for $40.

[nipper]

You can reseal the pump, i think there is a kit, but that time is money thing, sometimes its cheaper to get a used pump (thats what i did). You may even get it for dirt cheap on the USMB wanted board. I got one for the price of shipping. As ^ said, check the hoses first.



nipper