Author Topic: Power steering reservoir overflowing  (Read 254 times)

johnk

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Power steering reservoir overflowing
« on: September 12, 2025, 01:33:32 »
My power steering reservoir is overflowing through the top. I understand from searching this site that it is most likely caused by an air bubble in the system. Following what was recommended here I raised the front of the car and turned the steering wheel left and right several times with the engine running.  It still leaks. Should I do it again for a longer period of time or try something else?

I really appreciate the help!

Thanks

John K
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
2008 E350
2007 GL 450
2019 BMW 540

Benz Dr.

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Re: Power steering reservoir overflowing
« Reply #1 on: September 12, 2025, 06:52:37 »
Turn your engine off while turning your steering wheel from side to side.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn
1966 230SL 5 speed
1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1990 560SEC

johnk

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Re: Power steering reservoir overflowing
« Reply #2 on: September 12, 2025, 12:14:56 »
Thanks Doc
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
2008 E350
2007 GL 450
2019 BMW 540

Vander

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Re: Power steering reservoir overflowing
« Reply #3 on: September 12, 2025, 13:21:32 »
If that doesn't work, bleed the steering gearbox. With the car running, and all 4 wheels on the ground there is a bleeder screw on the top of the gearbox, use a socket. It looks just like a bleeder on a brake caliper.
1969 280SL

wwheeler

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Re: Power steering reservoir overflowing
« Reply #4 on: September 12, 2025, 19:33:52 »
You can also run a hose from the bleeder back to the reservoir. When the bubbles stop, system bled. You don't want to fill the reservoir all the way to begin with. Leave it about half way full until all of the bubbles are gone. You only need just enough fluid while bleeding to prevent sucking in air to the pump from the reservoir. After it is bled, fill it up to the mark. 
Wallace
Texas
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johnk

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Re: Power steering reservoir overflowing
« Reply #5 on: September 13, 2025, 03:08:32 »
Thanks gents

I tried it with the engine off before but not enough times. This time I left the top off the reservoir and could see the bubbles escape. I kept on turning the wheel until all air was gone. Worked like a dream!

John K
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
2008 E350
2007 GL 450
2019 BMW 540

 

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