Leaking Fluids.....need Advice!

[sahls01gmc]

My high mileage truck is starting to leak some fluids, and I need to know the best route to take.

 

 

First, my Master Cylinder is leaking by the firewall. There is fluid coating the firewall and also on the the inside of the wheel well.

 

Second, the power steering is leaking. The pump attached to the motor is ok, but the actual steering knuckle (sorry, can't think of what the steering column attaches to) is leaking, and there is quite a bit of play inside the part as well. Can I rebuild, or only replace?

 

Third, I have an intermittent coolant leak. It never leaks consistently, but every so often it decides to slowly leak from what seems to be around the water pump area. How much of a pain is replacing that? I don't have a pulley puller, what other "specialty" tools would I need to tackle this? Would it be worth it to replace the thermostat, hoses, and any other part of the cooling system?

 

 

If there's anything that you can help me with, I would really appreciate it!

 

 

James

[jim brock]

Start by obtaining a repair manual (Haynes) for your model. Study the sections on replacing Water Pump and Master Cylinder. Sounds like these two will need to be replaced. If you are comfortable with your own skill level you should be able to handle these. The steering gear box removal may require a special tool to seperate the arm from the tie rod. Some parts stores loan tools like these or you may need to rent or buy one. The gear box seals could be replaced by a shop specializing in such work or you can replace it with a used (salvage), rebuilt, or new one. Check around for best prices.

[8.1HD/ALLISON]

+1

[txab]

Depending on the age of your hoses and t'stat, it may well be time to change them. Been over 4 years?

[sahls01gmc]

Suburban, I will start there first with the manual and check repair methods. I'm more than comfortable with my skill level, I just don't have all of the specialty tools. Haynes manual the best, or should I reference more than 1?

 

txab, it has been over 4 years, and the truck has 200k miles on it.....with almost all original components. I just don't want to replace more than I need to, but I guess if I replace it all it can last another 200k!!!

 

 

Thanks for the great advice guys!

 

 

James