I've got a 1989 Ranger that is leaking power steering fluid. I haven't looked at it close enough to be absolutely sure, but I think the fluid is escaping out the motor itself. Not the pump, but the motor that attaches to the tie rod assembly. (Or is called a power steering box?) I'm thinking the big seal is deteriorated, the one around the shaft that connects to the Pittman arm.

I had this same problem on another Ranger a few years ago. Foolishly, I rebuilt the entire power steering motor. Pretty annoying task. I swore I'd never do that again. If that's the problem this time, I'd rather replace only the outer seal and be done with it.

My question is this: can I replace that seal from the outside, without removing the power steering motor? I'm guessing not. But if anyone knows any different, that would be good news to hear.

Thanks,
Dave

 

Just did this on my 88 for the same reason. You have to remove the entire steering box from the truck......Not sure if this is a no no but here's more info over on TRS - http://www.therangerstation.com/Maga...ox_rebuild.htm

 

if its not blocked with www.*************** i think you win the link posting game on ranger forums.

sounds stupid but have you checked your cap, my 89 was soaked with ps fluid, although also soaked with every other fluid that could possibly leak except for brakes, but for me it was the vented cap on the pump letting the fluid out of the top. Would slosh out of the cap through a pin hole that i assume was for venting, would then drip all over the pump, and down all over the frame. if i took the truck offroad where it was aggressively jostled there would be a puddle on top of the cap when i was finished from all the fluid that had come out.

if thats not the case at all and your pumps ready to die though id believe that too.

 

Sighman - Not stupid at all. I've had times when I've done a complex repair job only to find out later that the problem was actually something simple. I don't think that is the case here, as I haven't noticed the filler neck being wet with fluid. But I'll take a closer look and make sure.

Very useful site about the steering box, Mike. It's a job I did one other time, but should be easier now with some guidance - if I have to do it again.

Thanks for all the good advice, guys.