Hello, I have encountered a issue with my 1990 v12 xjs convertible (145k miles) that I dont believe I can put off any longer, before digging into it I would love to get some advice.

The car has had a power steering leak for as long as ive owned it. enough to leave a mark anywhere it was parked but easy enough to keep topped off. As the car was running well otherwise I just put it off for a few years and enjoyed driving the car. Recently, I may have let the reservoir run dry and upon startup there was a light momentary grinding sound and during that drive the car lost all of the ps fluid, that made me suspect the pump however it doesnt appear to have lost any fluid from the shaft seal or drip there. Instead the drip is right behind the front cross member although I cant locate the exact location. I understand there is a seal on the rack that commonly fails and leaks on these cars as well as potentially the tubes. The car will drip abit more if I turn the steering wheel with the vehicle off (long after starting it).

Does anyone know a cheap source for the seal kit?

Would I be able to remove the ps belt and drive the car or would that be risking damage?

Any suspicions as to exactly what may have failed?

Best,

 

The PS pump is a GM unit, the rebuild kits are common. Try a Gates 351160. There is also a small cooler on the crossmember, with hose to it from the pump. Most likely the hose is leaking. I'm not sure of the size, but transmission cooler line will likely fit.

 

Before you do anything get some Lucas PS fluid sealer and just add it to the system. Its thick like honey, and will most likely seal things up. The 1990 XJS uses the older rack and they also leak after rebuilds. Its worth a try since you cant really hurt anything else at this point.

 

Is you car a V12? if so:
The leak, from the location you mention, is from the rack itself.
The car is pretty much undriveable with no P.S.
A rack rebuild is in your future.