Detroit Disco
Member
Noticed some oil dropping on the driveway, left side of vehicle, near wheel. ACE fluid was a bit low.
Opened it up to discover that what I assume is the (relatively) low-pressure return line has an abrasion leak. See attached photo. Looking at the situation, I believe that the independent secured the line with a zip tie after swapping my steering gearbox a couple of years back. The line rubbed against the pressurized intake tube (turbo discharge to intercooler intake) and is now leaking - but not penetrated.
Looking at the ACE diagrams, it seems like a terrible job to remove and replace any of these ACE lines - and it seems a shame to scrap the line for a failure in a straight section of steel tubing.
Q. Does anyone know what kind of pressure the return line possesses?
Q. Any advice on a DIY solution - that may have worked in the past?
Initial thoughts:
- Drain the line sufficiently to de-grease, and apply JB Weld (common US two-part 'metal' in a tube)
- Perhaps find a clamping patch of the correct size
- Cut line and use compression fittings to splice?
I'll look on line for the correct replacement line - but again, even if the price is reasonable, the installation seems really difficult given the ratio of steel : rubber line.
Appreciate the input / wisdom.
Opened it up to discover that what I assume is the (relatively) low-pressure return line has an abrasion leak. See attached photo. Looking at the situation, I believe that the independent secured the line with a zip tie after swapping my steering gearbox a couple of years back. The line rubbed against the pressurized intake tube (turbo discharge to intercooler intake) and is now leaking - but not penetrated.
Looking at the ACE diagrams, it seems like a terrible job to remove and replace any of these ACE lines - and it seems a shame to scrap the line for a failure in a straight section of steel tubing.
Q. Does anyone know what kind of pressure the return line possesses?
Q. Any advice on a DIY solution - that may have worked in the past?
Initial thoughts:
- Drain the line sufficiently to de-grease, and apply JB Weld (common US two-part 'metal' in a tube)
- Perhaps find a clamping patch of the correct size
- Cut line and use compression fittings to splice?
I'll look on line for the correct replacement line - but again, even if the price is reasonable, the installation seems really difficult given the ratio of steel : rubber line.
Appreciate the input / wisdom.