My power steering ('70 Dart Custom 225 /6) leaks. However, I don't think it's just a 'leak'. Could it be caused to leak because the pump is bad? Occasionally when I start the car up, I can hear the pump all of the sudden 'come to life' and turn once or twice, and then it's squealing like there's not enough fluid in it. Could the pump not be working, which would cause excess pressure in the gearbox, which causes the leak? It's leaking from the gearbox, at the bottom, by the way. I don't think it always leaks though, just when the pump is being fussy. Thoughts? Thanks!

-KC

it could be a hose that only leaks when you are turning the wheel. i've had that before. get someone to turn the wheel lock to lock while you inspect the hoses.

the gears are notorious for weeping fluid out also, from a variety of spots...i like manual steering just because of this...not to mention better feel for the road.

sb

This is why I went manual on my 70, have a manual box waiting for my 73, and I'm gonna buy one for my 74. The PS is to overassisted for my taste, leaks all the time (even with a new pump), and adds a ton of weight to the car.

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70 Dart, 360, 727

I just rebuilt my '71 Saginaw pump due to a shaft leak; it was easier than rebuilding a carb, just as the articles said.

If the leak is around the pitman shaft, the '75 factory manual tells you how to replace that seal w/o special tools & w/ the box in the car - basically, you remove the stuff in the way, put a pan to catch the fluid, and blow the seal out by running the car and turning the wheel hard against the stop to build up pressure. Worked great.