How to change PS fluid tank
 

Hi all,

I have been a Volvo owner/driver for ten years now and my father was always my mechanic, so needless to say, Volvo repair was always free.

Well, my father recently passed away suddenly. I am untrusting of most mechanics because I don't want to be swindled or pushed into buying new parts when I could easily find used ones that are compatible.

I have a fast leak in my power steering which my father was going to fix just before he passed. My dad taught me a few things about car repair and I'm interested in learning more.

Any suggestions as to how to find the source of the leak and fixing it?

Thanks!

-Julia

The first thing that I would do would be to use a degreaser and clean the area where the leak is coming from. Then check it periodically until you see where the fluid is coming from and then you go from there. Many times by the time you realize that you have a leak the whole area is covered in oil or fluid and it is hard to know from where it is coming exactly. I know that I am not giving you a solution but it's a start. Your leak could be coming from a hose, hose fitting, pump (gasket or seal), or reservoir to name a few.

As brick stated you first need to find the leak. Go to the area where there is the most fluid. Spray it with Simply Green and let it soak for a few minutes. Then take a hose and wash it down. You can use a low pressure fan spray. Let it dry or look around to see if it is leaking when the engine is off. If no leak then make sure the bottle is full and start it up. Start looking to see where anything is leaking. If no leak have someone turn the steering wheel while you continue to look. If it is a high pressure leak you should be able to see it. Also watch out you don't get bit with the fan. If you find something then let us know. As to a mechanic ask friend and co-workers. Look for volvo specialists in the area.

I'm sorry for your loss

I'll guess you drive a 240 from your screen name. 240's used at least 3 different power steering setups. The early models used a Saginaw pump with an integral reservoir. At some point in the later 80's, certainly by 89, they went to a set up with a remote reservoir mounted on the driver side inner fender. In 91 they went back to an integral tank version. If your Dad was talking about replacing the tank, I'm guessing you have the remote version. The tank can be replaced on the early versions too, but the difficulty and grunge factor is such that most folks opt for an entire replacement.
Assuming you have the remote tank version, it's child's play really. Here's a pic of the pump and reservoir removed from a car...
Attachment 18872
The reservoir is never pressurized, so the hose fittings are simply caterpillar clamps. Loosen the hoses, remove the screws holding the reservoir bracket to the fender and its in your hand. I have a grease/oil suction gun but an old baster works well to remove remaining fluid form the tank. When you refill the new tank, turn the wheel from lock to lock a few times w/ motor running to work any bubbles out and then top it off again.