Steering: PS Reservoir lid

[JBOYLE]

After trying to figure out where my PS leak is coming from, it now appears that it's something simple...the lid of the PS reservoir is not tight enough.
It's pretty clear that fluid is escaping the lid and running down the sides of the reservoir.

Has anyone else ever experienced that?
We're guessing that a thicker gasket will provide a better seal.(the older rubber gasket is there but it's sure not working).
Any other recommendations?

[bezhawk]

Replacement stud grommets are for Ford type of reservoirs, that have a dipstick and cap that is vented. Stock center studs have a loose grommet, and a washer that prevents the rubber from sealing the grommet to the stud. It has to be that way to vent, and prevent expansion from heat from forcing oil past the lid or seals.

[41 Frank]

As has happened to me in the past it could be as simple as the lid not being seated properly. Remove the lid, inspect the gasket, if ok reinstall and make sure the lid is seated properly. Since the stud is not exactly in the center of the lid I find myself turning the lid slightly until it falls into place.

[JoeHall]

Beware, sometimes the tinny reservoir body will get tweaked slightly, making it difficult to get the cap to sit squarely.

[Bullet]

Do you want the lid on this to be really tight, from the sounds of it only figer tight. I have replaced the ps lid gasket and the center stud rubber washer. I also usually make sure the lid is seated well, but then tighten it really tight. Maybe to tight.

Mark

[JBOYLE]

Does anyone have a source for the large rubber gasket for the lid?

[StudeRich]

Yes, they are included in the Studebaker Vendor P/S Pump Rebuild Kits along with the special center stud Grommet, shaft Seal, Gaskets, etc.

[Stu Duglee]

I've had 2 instances when I didn't put the lid on perfect & I had some leak-age.I reset the lid more carefully & no leaks.

[dynolou2]

Or if you're tired of removing the lid to check fluid level, find a 60's ford, mustang falcon, etc and use the lid with the built in dipstick. Yes I know that you have a very nice restored Avanti, but ease of checking and filling resevoir trumps that for me. I do have a spare lid [stock] if you need one. Lou Cote PS, Will you be coming over to the car show at Cle Ellum in August on sat the 17?

[JBOYLE]

I'm still having issues (just ask my wife!).
I made a new gasket and very carefullty replced the lid. It stopped most of the leak, but there was still some.

I had the car in for other work with a old car specialist and he added another rubber gasket and carefully put on the lid. And it still leaks slightly.
The lid certainly seems to be centered.

Any ideas?

Will you be coming over to the car show at Cle Ellum in August on sat the 17?

Probably.

[StudeRich]

Could the issue be that you do not have the correct washer under the wing nut that has a small hole drilled in it to vent into the recessed "ring" in the lid under it and the rubber washer?
The Reservoir needs to be vented.

[JBOYLE]

There is no hole in the washer (except for the one in the center ).

There is also a rubber plug that fits into the top of the reservoir. I put the washer on top of that, then the wing nut.