The power steering reservoir is an important part of the power steering system and unfortunately is often thought of as just some where to store oil. As well as important functions the reservoir can be a tell-tale of serious faults within the power steering system.
RESERVOIR WET ON THE OUTSIDE ………………..
This is an indication that there is a pocket of air some where in the hydraulic circuit usually in the power steering gear. A common symptom of air is steering wheel kick or shake on rough surfaces or vehicle darting particularly when moving the vehicle back onto the road over a road shoulder.
To check for air , hold the steering wheel at 12 o’clock , engine idling and very quickly wrench it right and then left, if air is present you will experience a baulk , usually on one lock.
If baulking is evident on both locks pump flow may be low .Increase engine revs and try the air check again .
If baulking is no longer evident then low pump flow may be the problem, have it checked with a flow and pressure kit.
If you have any doubts whatsoever take the vehicle to a qualified truck mechanic or one of Hydrosteers’ service branches.
Hydrosteer 