I recently had to have the engine replaced in my '05 Toyota 4Runner. I got it back about 4 weeks ago and about a week ago I discovered a leak at my Power steering pump. When the engine is running the fluid is slinging out around the pulley. I noticed that the fluid that is in the system is clear. I also know that the correct fluid that Toyota calls for is Dexron 2 or 3 ATF and the color of it is pink. I contacted the mechanic that installed the engine and he said that he went back with a clear fluid instead of the Dexron 2 or 3 ATF.
Now My questions:
- would the use of the incorrect fluid cause the leak?
- And if so by flushing and replacing the fluid with the correct Dexron 2 or 3 ATF, could that cause the seals to swell back up and re-seat or
- Do I need to replace the pump?
I don't want to run it too long and cause leaks in the rack and pinion unit.
Thanks for your help.
Mike Hammond