Power steering leak - 2860DS

[morganroths]

Hi All,

We are new to class c motorhomes having traded up from a TT earlier this year. We are on a 6 week trip from Arizona and a few days ago noticed that when we stepped on the brake or turned the wheel, there was a new noise that didn't sound right. Of course, this happens to us when we are in small towns in Montana with no real repair options around.

After some google searching, we pinpointed it was probably a power steering thing. Sure enough, we were almost out of power steering fluid.

Of course, finding the right type of fluid in a small town in Montana was not possible so we made the drive to Missoula and got it filled back up. Upon further inspection, we found the source of the leak. We are hoping it is not something that has to be fixed until we are back home and will keep an eye on it.

I know this isn't a Forest River issue but a Ford issue, just frustrating since the motorhome is a 2016!

If anyone has any idea what part of the engine this is, let me know. I wouldn't say that we are that engine savvy to know more than what we were able to find out already!

[RamblerGuy]

Just to be sure you know, the power steering pump also supplies pressure for the brake booster. If you run out of power steering fluid, you will have not power brake boost and the pedal force to stop will be several times higher than normal. You can stop it but it will likely take several times further. Not a little further, several times further.

A power steering fluid leak on these vehicles is a dangerous situation. Check the fluid often, and I mean not just during gas stops. Leaks always get worse.

As for the photo, I can't tell for sure, but it may be of the power steering gear box.

If at all possible, stop at a Ford dealer. Maybe you are lucky and it's just a leaky hose and they can easily change it for you.

Look in your Ford Owner's Guide. There’s a toll-free number for motorhome service assistance. If a local Ford dealer won't look at it, they can help. Some smaller dealers don't have a bay large enough to handle a motorhome and they may not want to work outside.

[Kevin & Judy]

Possible pittman arm seal.

[ilmor]

Looks like the leak was somewhere above the steering component pictured and dripped down onto it. Might be a bad hose or hose connection.