Powe steering Oil Leak

[andunslg]

I have a 252-xxxx L200 2 wheel version. After the regular service which has done few two days ago, I hear a metal scratching noise when I turn the steering wheel. Today the sound got increased more and more and the steering got hard to turn.

As soon as I came home, I checked the power steering pump. All the oil has gone. There is no leak in the pump horse lines. But in the power steering box, oil was all over the lower part.

I put new oil and it took around 500ml to bring the oil level to max.

I whipped out the oil on the box and chassis.Then I started the engine and turned the wheel many times.I cant see any new oil leak. But haven't driven after that.

Is it OK to drive in this condition? what can be the reason for leak?

Thanks!

PS - These images are taken before whipping out the leaked oil.

[andunslg]

Today I went to a garage and replaced a rubber over-ring and a washer in the top part of the power steering box. Still no leak is visible. Also there were no damages according to the mechanic.

There was a play in the steering. That seems to be also fixed due to the fix.

Thanks you people for the instructions.

[Dushyantha]

does the powersteering feel the same now as before this problem occured ? probably an oil seal in the steering box

[andunslg]

In the steady condition I feel the same. But dont know in the drive. I didn't try that

Also there were no leak or reduction of oil level before. This happens in two days.

Edited July 12, 2016 by andunslg

[Davy]

There obviously is a leak in your power steering box which explains the oil being splattered all over the place. The oil probably leaks out when when the pressure inside the system exceeds a certain amount. So this may not happen when the engine is idling. You should turn the steering from lock to lock while revving the engine to see if there's actually a leak. It should be an oil seal as Dushyantha mentioned.

The power steering pump and rack (in this case "box") should never run without oil. If done so, excessive heat and friction will damage them. So you should get this fixed before you use the car.

[Twin Turbo]

Mitsubishi's have big turning circles.

Yolur power steering system is strained when you turn the st.wheel to the max and hold on, so keepm it in mind when you're making U*Turns. Or don't do it.

If possible have the steering system checked and adjusted 

As for the damage already done, try and get dome power steering conditioner. it might help .

P.s I've never heard of our guies changing power steering fluid.

Edited July 13, 2016 by Twin Turbo

[PerfMad]

Turn the steering fully to right side and check whether you are loosing oil (check whether oil is dripping on the floor), if so probably you're oil seals are gone (if shaft is fine, then replacing the oil seals should do the trick), worst case shaft is damaged.. (if  no leaks in right side, then check left)