Need Some Help

CanaryGT · Mar 28, 2010

So earlier today i noticed my car was making a small kinda exhaust ticking sound. When I pulled in from the movies I then noticed that my engine bay had caught fire. It was small and went out when I opened my hood. So I had my fiance start my car and I let it run. No problems. When I asked her to move the wheel a little, I noticed that when you heard the power-steering pump go on, it sprayed fluid on my header (drivers side) causing a nice HUGE puff of smoke.

Now my question. Is it probably just my hose or what else could it be???

LAFENATU · Mar 28, 2010

When it sprays, is it from the pump or is it from the hose??

CanaryGT · Mar 28, 2010

Well I dunno. I think its from where the pressure line hose from the pump. I couldn't find a replacement Teflon O ring to fit inside there without buying a new hose so we kinda make shifted a plastic one. I'm thinking it just gave out. I honestly cant see where this stuff comes from.

On a side note, that exhaust tick almost sounds like its below the upper intake manifold. Ill take it off tomorrow to check for sure.

LAFENATU · Mar 28, 2010

Look at the power steering cooler as well. Mine cracked after 15 years and I just replaced it.

CanaryGT · Mar 28, 2010

where is the power steering cooler located?

LAFENATU · Mar 28, 2010

Its at the front of the car mounted in front of the radiator. The piping gets brittle and cracks. Not all cars came with them...it looks like a small trans cooler.

Paul · Mar 28, 2010

I had something similar happen once. Caused a small fire. The power steering line was resting against the #5 primary tube on the driver side header - melted a hole in it. Caused PS fluid to run onto the header and catch fire. Check for that.

Paul.