Redline PS fluid weeping from reservoir...

[moribundman]

May I ask why you don't replace the cap? Seals and gaskets don't seal forever. A poor example, but it still may demonstrate how finicky seals can be: in case of a water resistant watch, the O-ring must be replaced each time the watch is opened. The P/S cap gasket is exposed to heat and oil and the cap has probably been removed many times over the years. I wouldn't be suprised if the seal can't seal properly anymore.

 

[bfg9k]

moribundman, I didn't replace the cap out of laziness

Actually, I won't get a chance to swing by the local Subaru dealer until at best next week sometime. It takes my whole lunch hour so such trips are carefully planned...

 

[moribundman]

Well, laziness (I call it efficiency!) or not, based on your topic starter and problem description, I'd suspect a defective cap before anything else. Since the P/S reservoir is wet on the outside, the fluid must be leaking from the cap or through a crack in the reservoir.

 

[wiswind]

I have had the Redline Power Steering Fluid in my '96 Windstar for just over a year. I have not had any leakage issue. My year calls for a "type F" fluid....and the Redline product had the same Ford specification number listed as I have listed in my owner's manual
The Redline product is a synthetic.
Newer Windstars call for Mercon ATF for power steering fluid.

I would CAREFULLY look up the specification number that your manufacturer calls for....and look for a product that matches that number. I visit the product manufacture's website, look at the product labeling.....and will buy a product that lists the specification number that I am looking for over one the does not.

As far as leakage from the cap....I know that you most likely verified this...but I want to mention it for anyone else who may read this thread.... You do NOT want to overfill the power steering resevoir. The extra room in there is for expansion, and to accept the extra fluid from manually steering (turning the wheel without the engine running). Also...if there is any air in the system.....it can cause foaming...which will raise the fluid level.
An easy short way to purge air from most power steering systems....is to turn the wheel from stop to stop several times....not resting against the stops. If you see any bubbles in the fluid after doing that.....wait a while for the bubbles to float to the top....and repeat the process.

 

[moribundman]

I just checked the P/S reservoir cap on my Audi and it's actually got a vented pressure cap. Still, I think it's the gasket, or in case the cap is vented, maybe the vent mechanism isn't working properly.