Power Steering Fluid Fiat Ducato

[CK45]

Hello
I have a fiat ducato 2.8JTD 2003 year motorhome
The power steering fluid level keeps dropping but there is absolutely no sign of any leaks anywhere or on floor?
I have to add about 250ml every 1000miles
Is this something I should be concerned about? Is it normal?
Any suggestions as to what to do or where to look?
Thanks very much

 

[pappajohn]

Unless there's a leak the fluid level should never drop.
It will rise and fall with temperature...and it gets very hot...but should always remain the same level when cold.

 

[CK45]

Unless there's a leak the fluid level should never drop.
It will rise and fall with temperature...and it gets very hot...but should always remain the same level when cold.

Thanks very uch. Defintely dropping as added over 1 litre in past year.
I only ever open reservoir when its stone cold and add fluid when cold.
I park van in same place and not a mark on the drive from any drips.
Really puzzled!

 

[pappajohn]

It may only be leaking when in use and hot.
It may be the pump seals are failing so when the pump shaft isn't turning it's holding fluid, once the pump turns and the fluid is hot it could be seeping out....but that would be on the open road.
250ml over 1000 miles isn't much so maybe a close inspection from underneath may show fluid has been absorbed by road dirt etc stuck to the underside.

 

[CK45]

It may only be leaking when in use and hot.
It may be the pump seals are failing so when the pump shaft isn't turning it's holding fluid, once the pump turns and the fluid is hot it could be seeping out....but that would be on the open road.
250ml over 1000 miles isn't much so maybe a close inspection from underneath may show fluid has been absorbed by road dirt etc stuck to the underside.

great thanks will take a look
will have to google to see what the pump looks like and where it is, no idea!
Great point about it only happening when hot, that would make sense

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[MisterB]

it might only leak when on full lock or when its being used (can you test it or view it being operated when the van is stationary ?) you might see a damp patch ...

ps I'm not a mechanic so might not even be close, but its what I would try if i cant see any leaks on the floor

 

[CK45]

it might only leak when on full lock or when its being used (can you test it or view it being operated when the van is stationary ?) you might see a damp patch ...

ps I'm not a mechanic so might not even be close, but its what I would try if i cant see any leaks on the floor

Excellent idea I can try that, rope girlfriend in to help