2001 Dodge Truck power steering leak

Tiny
VENTURINI176
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 DODGE TRUCK
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 117,000 MILES
I would like to know if there is a gasket in between the pitman arm and the gearbox on my truck. It appears, after trouble shooting my power steering pump, that there is fluid leaking from the above area. I know how to replace the pump and lines, but wanted to know if it is a simple fix to replace the gasket (if there is one) Thanks
Saturday, April 11th, 2009 AT 11:23 AM

2 Replies

Tiny
DOCFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,828 POSTS
There are two seals on the sector shaft very similar to a grease seal. Difficult to remove without disassembly but there is an old shade tree technique that usually works. Will need a special tool called piman arm puller, regular jaw type wil not work!
Once arm off remove snap ring place pan under gear. Start truck turn wheel to build up pressure and seals should blow out into pan. Then drive in new seals.
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Saturday, April 11th, 2009 AT 12:30 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,916 POSTS
Hi Docfixit, I've used your trick before and it works very nicely, but let me add a tidbit.

The seal is most likely leaking due to wear in the pitman shaft bushing. I found the first one when my new seal started leaking within a week of replacement.

Start the engine and have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth about 1/8 turn. If you look very closely, you will see the pitman shaft move sideways a little. Once it reaches the end of its travel, it will start to turn. This also leads to steering wander, but not as bad as a worn track bar. A new seal will not be a permanent cure for this leak. The gearbox must be replaced unless the bushing is available from the dealer or a rebuilder. I never looked for a source.

Caradiodoc
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Sunday, April 12th, 2009 AT 3:56 AM

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