Power Steering Leak

[ATX Cobalt]

I currently have a small power steering leak and had a few questions I'm hoping someone can answer.

1. The fluid that is draining is red in color. Do they use transmission fluid on boats, or standard power steering fluid?

2. Has anyone tried using a power steering stop leak fluid to attempt to stop a leak, and did it work?

3. What's the process of changing out a power steering pump, and is it a DIY type of project? Or, leave it to the professionals?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[akorcovelos]

I currently have a small power steering leak and had a few questions I'm hoping someone can answer.

1. The fluid that is draining is red in color. Do they use transmission fluid on boats, or standard power steering fluid?

2. Has anyone tried using a power steering stop leak fluid to attempt to stop a leak, and did it work?

3. What's the process of changing out a power steering pump, and is it a DIY type of project? Or, leave it to the professionals?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

1. ATF
2. DON'T put stop leak in anything, ever. It's snake oil that will cause you more costly repairs down the road.
3. Depends on your mechanical skills and tools. Have you identified it's the pump and not a fitting or hose?

[BobRae99]

The power steering pump on my 2016 210 started leaking last year at 10 hours. The dealer didn't want to fix it dockside and hauled it into their shop for the repair. I don't know if that means it is an involved repair or there was some other reason they hauled it out. I had a later generation engine and it looked a bit complicated to me - am not familiar with your engine though. While they were waiting for the part from Volvo Penta, they had me add regular ATF. I wouldn't add any "stop leak" products.

[kas232ca]

I initially thought my pump was leaking due to fluid on the bottom of the pump. Turns out that was engine oil coming from the crank seal. The power steering fluid that was leaking into the bilge was coming from the steering ram that was leaking.

[pickwick226]

Do a little research and chances are you can rebuild the steering ram. I found a kit on ebay and rebuilt mine last year. It has worked fine since.