Steering rack and pinion leak

Alright. So, I got this 2005 Tundra 2 weeks ago and so far I’ve done the timing belt and water pump, lower ball joints, and just replaced the original spark plugs today. Truck runs great. I had to take it to get the ball joints done at a Toyota dealership due to work schedule not allowing me to do it myself. The tech informed me that the steering rack and pinion is leaking pretty good. Showed me some pictures and I also looked myself and it does seem to be leaking decently. No drops on the ground, but it’s definitely leaking.

My question is: how long can I go like this? I have a valve cover gasket leak as well and ordered the parts from Toyota to do it myself, but they were back ordered for over 2 weeks and my work schedule just won’t allow me the time to install them. I bought the truck and have already thrown like $2k in repairs to it already.

 

Mind you, the truck was a 1 owner, in near mint condition. I knew I had to do the valve cover gaskets when I bought it since I saw them leaking. The truck is in such good condition and looks great, just seems to be sucking money from me right now.

 

Keep the PS reservoir topped off. How fast is it dropping fluid level? Maybe post some pics. My leak was the pressure hose which was an easy fix.
For the VCs, check oil level often. Again pics are valuable.

PS - Read Shifty’s megathread and update your profile to 2005 AC SR5 4.7 and your city or state.

 

I’ve had the truck 2 weeks and haven’t had to fill the PS reservoir. Same with the oil. Oil level has not dropped since I’ve had it. I’ve kept an eye on both just to make sure but based off the fact I haven’t had to add oil or PS fluid I would assume it’s not a terrible leak.
I’ll try and snap some picture of the steering rack leak when I get home from work.

 

It's a 20 year old vehicle. What did you expect? These trucks can be needy. Seals get old and dry, rubber cracks, etc. If you aren't able to do your own maintenance and repairs, then yes, they can suck the life out of your bank account.

 

Need pics to understand the severity and source. Is it leaking at the inner side of the bellows? If so,

$15 AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks, 8 Ounce Bottle

AT-205 may help shore that up. If it's leaking at the lines/fittings, you may just need to make sure they're tight, or replace entirely.

 

Sam -post some pics. We’re here to help

 

I'm about to tackle this on a friend's tacoma. If we can't find the slow leak, there is an oil based UV dye and the UV flashlight we will use to find it. Hopefully it's just a hose.