I was in the process of changing my serp belt and my steering pump, and I accidentally spilled steering fluid on the new belt. I can put the old belt back on for today (it's not broken YET). But how can I clean the new one?

 

I would just spray it down with some brake cleaner and then wipe it off.

 

Soap and water?

 

Thanks. I spilled it on the rough asphalty side and it had soaked its way in a little. I didn't have brake cleaner, so I washed it (but didn't scrub) in dishsoap and hot water. I'll let it dry for a day, then put it on.

 

The belt gets wet all the time, not sure why your so concerned about it.

 

dont worry about it

 

Don't bother with it.
if it squeaks, spray it with WD-40 or something.

 

Antifreeze is what you don't want on the belt. It'll squeak to no end. I changed my thermostat a couple of days ago, and I made sure to remove the belt first this time around just in case I spilled any like I did the last time.

 

I know this isn't on topic and you may know this but just a reminder. When you fill it back up Ford uses Trans fluid in the power steering pumps, no PS fluid.

 

I already filled it back up with PS fluid because that's what was in the old one. If I tried flushing the PS fluid out and putting AT fluid in, I'd end up mixing the two.

I'm amazed how much quieter it is without that rattling, ready-to-seize old pump.