Power steering reservoir blowing fluid

omx500 · Postby **omx500** » Sat Mar 24, 2018 8:49 pm

Hi. Now I have worked through all my other leaks, I am finding my PS reservoir seems to be blowing fluid out around its dipstick. Only seems to happen under track conditions. Dipstick remains in place. Is there a stock 'fix' for this situation known amongst the MX5 race fratetnity? Car is NA8 with turbo. No mods to steering.
Thanks, Omar

hks_kansei · Postby **hks_kansei** » Sat Mar 24, 2018 9:47 pm

http://www.maruhamotors.co.jp/miata/parts/pscap.html

Haven't used one, but you could probably use their idea and adapt your own.

Otherwise, I'm pretty sure fluid coming out is usually a result of it overheating, so a better option would likely be a better power steering cooler than stock.

greenMachine · Postby **greenMachine** » Sat Mar 24, 2018 11:24 pm

I ran a barrel cooler plumbed into my PS circuit, mounted up under the panel where the bonnet lock was located.

You should also check that the washer under the dipstick handle is in place.

:mrgreen:

omx500 · Postby **omx500** » Sun Apr 01, 2018 4:30 pm

I did't really realize that ps fluid heats up. I think I will try a hybrid solution - an aftermarket reservoir with oring sealing cap and an in line cooler on the low pressure return. Thank you for the input. Omar

manga_blue · Postby **manga_blue** » Sun Apr 01, 2018 8:11 pm

Mine always used to blow under track conditions. Then I just let it find its own level and it was right for years after that.

Apu · Postby **Apu** » Wed Apr 04, 2018 9:42 pm

The power steering pump is mechanical so it just turns faster and heats up the fluid when driving hard.

I switched to a electric power steering, and Mania also did so with their race car - no problems as the pump operates at a constant rate / speed.

Nuddy · Postby **Nuddy** » Sat Apr 07, 2018 5:42 pm

Apu wrote:The power steering pump is mechanical so it just turns faster and heats up the fluid when driving hard.

I switched to a electric power steering, and Mania also did so with their race car - no problems as the pump operates at a constant rate / speed.

I'm guessing you are talking about a electric motor dríven hydraulic pump for your hydraulic power steering.

Electric power steering does not use hydraulics:
"An electric motor that is mounted on either the steering column or steering gear (usually a rack-and-pinion setup these days) applies torque to the steering column, assisting the driver to turn the steering wheel. Sensors detect the position of the steering wheel and any input from the driver – hauling on the wheel to change the vehicle’s direction. A control module applies assistive torque via the electric motor. "