I recently took my new (to me) p-car into a pre-track inspection with the PCA Diablo group. I noticed a minor leak and some baking taking place under the car. One of the car people suggested the leak was related to the power steering. I included a photo of it here. Anyone able to identify this leak? Is this something easy to repair? Need to be repaired?

This 2003 996 Targa is new to me ... Thanks for the help.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/peterwe...n/photostream/

 

Curious why this has no responses? Too simple an issue perhaps?

 

The picture is of the coolant temp sensor/sender on the side of the oil pump housing. So that is not the source of the oil leak. Trying to think where else it might be from.

 

Maybe the source is above that further up in the engine and I misunderstood the mechanics pointing to be at the sensor. Will get under the car tonight with a better light and see if I can isolate the leak. Regardless, it has not left a mark in my garage in 2 (happy) weeks of ownership. Must be a very minor leak. Was thinking of getting an oil change at RennShop. I am sure he will tell me what the deal is. Thanks for all your posts ... I read them daily.

 

The diagnosis from the local shop in San Ramon is powers steering hose from pump to rack is leaking. Estimated cost to fix $480 including part and labor. Tax extra. Fair quote?

 

$480 to change a hose?! I would look for an engine diagram, then a DIY write up.

 

There are two hoses that go from the pump to connections located above the engine on the passenger side. For a 2003 the part numbers and prices should be as follows:

996.344.443.06 List $240.02, Porscheoemparts.com $160.09

996.347.441.03 List $127.84 Porscheoemparts.com $85.27

I use pricing from porscheoemparts.com as they have an on-line parts look up with list and discount prices. The same pricing is usually available from Sunset and Suncoast. There are also some seals/o-rings that might be needed.

As for the labor, the connections above the engine can be a pain to get at, and I think you have to remove the AC Compressor to get at the lines. And you will need some Pentosin steering fluid to top off the system. I can see how it would be an hour or two of labor at shop time. A good mechanic could probably do it in an hour. So If you are paying list for the more expensive hose (don't know which one is leaking) the $480 is not too outrageous. It is a job you could do yourself if you are so inclined.