Oil leak on alternator and power steering pump

I've had my 2001 Toyota Tundra with the 4.7L engine for 4 years and its been extremely reliable - so much so that I haven't really had to do anything to it. I also haven't been doing the oil changes myself...

I recently had it die unexpectedly and after testing the battery, I belive it is the alternator (battery voltage shows only 11.9 volts when engine running). I pulled out the alternator and both it and the power steering pump are covered in oil and gunk. (See pics)

https://imgur.com/gallery/n064FZO

Any likely sources for the leak? Valve cover gaskets? Any suggests of things to check are appreciated! My plant is to clean things up, install a new alternator and see how things go... but I'd like to avoid destroying a new one if I can!

Thanks in advance.

 

I have the same problem on my 2001 tundra as well, it’s the power steering fluid leaking through the lines. I suggest buying new hose lines because they tend to become brittle and crack. Make sure to buy new clamps for it as well.

 

Thanks very much! I really appreciate it!

 

How does your PS sounds? Do you have to refill it any?

 

Might be cam seal leak.

 

My 2002 Tundra has a leaking PS pump and permeated supply lines. The garage, not a dealer, estimate $1,600 to replace both, half is parts. Is this reasonable?

 

I haven't noticed any noises or issues with the PS, but maybe I'm just ignorant. Would it be obvious? I haven't had to fill any but I will check that level for sure.

 

It would be a whining noise. You'd know if it was. And with as much gunk on there I'd be surprised if your level wasn't low. If it is your PS leaking.

 

Ouch. After a quick search on rockauto, a PS pump is $120-200 and some supply and return hoses are $200+ in canadian dollars. There might be other parts involved too, I'm not sure. ..

 

I've been around the engine bay a fair bit with it running and haven't heard a whining noise. I will check the level for sure and confirm when I can get an alternator back in there I suppose. Thanks for the tips!

 

Crap, I hope not, that sounds beyond my capability...

 

Just did a quick check (not that accurate since the front end is current lifted about 6" on ramps) but the PS fluid looks to be low - only covers the bottom 1/2" of the dipstick. I'm estimating it is at or a bit below the minimum level on the reservoir.

 

No, not even a little bit.

Ok. Top it off and keep an eye on it. Have you noticed anything else with funk on it? Burning smells? Drips on the ground?

 

Thanks bmf4069. The ground has been clean - it spends 99% of it's life parked in the same spot and I haven't seen anything. I guess because the alternator was catching everything! I haven't noticed any other burning smells. It's been really unremarkable the last 4 years, I got a new battery about two years ago and have the oil changed twice a year. Otherwise, I've neglected all maintenance... maybe that's my problem!

 

Could be a PS fluid leak coming from one or both of the two hoses that tie into the PS reservoir. Both of mine leaked starting about 2 years ago. Fixed the leak at both hoses with snake clamps that replaced the tired spring clamps.

Only way to know for sure where your leak is coming from is to clean everything up and run it. Inspect it every so often to see where the leak originates. She is too dirty right now to tell for sure.

 

What PHM said. Mine leaks at the rack itself, and its substantial enough that I have to top it off every 6th drive or so. Nice puddle under the truck.

With that being said, I dont think your leak is that bad. Run a rag under the lines on your res to see if they might be dripping, and check where they enter the PS pump.