I have oil coming out the neck of the steering gear box right where the small universal joint comes down from the steering shaft.

Plus I hear some grinding/squealing from that area as well possibly from the power steering pump, it is down about 1 inch of fluid.

Is this seal something that's easily changed? or is it one of those deals where the whole assembly has to be replaced?

thanks

Ron W.

 

It's a fairly common problem for the '03s to leak there. When you removed the dipstick/cap did you hear a "hiss" or "pop"? The cap isn't pressure-relieved very well (search for the cap mod on here). Pressure will build up inside the steering box during use and push fluid out the spot you are talking about. Happened to me.

Personally, I would top it off and drive it until your steering gets too loose/dangerous. Then get a new one from these guys: http://www.redheadsteeringgears.com/ If that one is out of your budget or you're not keeping the truck more than another couple of years then just get a new one from Napa, they seem to hold up for at least that long.

 

Yes, I did a search of common steering box problems and found that info on the poor cap design, but my pump had been changed to a non OEM version awhile back and has a different cap. I will loosen it a bit and drive around and check for a difference in the oil leak.

I looked at that that HD box and it's out of my price range right now, my local NAPA has one for $135 with a lifetime warranty. I know about "you get what you pay for" but right now money is everything. Incidentally Dodge dealer wants $600 with only a 12 month warranty.

Thanks for the info.

Ron W.