How good is stop leak ATF for a leaking PS system

[PandaBear]

Don't know where it is leaking, but is on a car that is not worth spending $1k to fix for sure. I may replace or rebuild a leaking PS pump myself or a few hoses, but if the rack/pinon is leaking I'm not going to replace it or pay someone to replace it.

So, if in the worst case it is the rack/pinon, will the stop leak PS fluid or ATF fluid work? or in that case I should just disconnect the hose and belt and plug the rack to disable the system?

 

[c3po]

Could you please tell us the year and make of your vehicle.

I would check the simple stuff 1st. It could be:

1) Worn clamp
2) Worn hose
3) Loose clamp

 

[PandaBear]

95 Corolla 3spd automatic.

My parent's car right now, just noticed it on a quick drive and have only spend a few mins on it. Will figure out the next weekend. It seems like the firewall in the center area is "wet", a puddle on the floor, and the power steering tank is low (by about 1 - 2 oz. The steering is noisy/squeaky when cold start and gets louder if you steer with low speed in the parking lot. After a couple mins the noise die down or gone.

The steering force related noise leads me to believe it is the steering and not the belt or the pump. I'll try some brake cleaner and isolate the area first thing next week.