2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission power steering pump

[DFerron]

during cold weather the fluid in the power steering pump foams out of the cap. No power steering or brakes. Any ideas on why and how to fix?

 

[HHhuntitall]

Does it have ATF in it, or power steering fluid?

 

[DFerron]

power steering fluid. replaced the pump and rebuilt the vacuum pump[ over the summer. /I]

 

[Missouri Mule]

You could try synthetic fluid.

 

[HHhuntitall]

Have hydraboost or vacuum boosted brakes? Sounds like an issue with the bypass on the hydraboost... .....

 

[NIsaacs]

Any damage to your cap, cracks or something?



Nick

 

[BDaugherty]

What brand of fluid did you use? I've always had good luck using store brand power steering fluid, but recently had to stay away from what my local Napa carries. It's not Napa brand and I will have to edit the actual brand name in later, but it seems to be too thick and it doesn't flow well at lower temps. I don't have any trouble with regular fluid here in the south, but if you have extremely low temps where you are, then the synthetic is the way to go.
The only real cause I can think of is pump cavitation which would be caused by too thick or too low level. Let it sit overnight and check the oil level.