Hey everyone,

I just bought an 82 280ZX from some guy in Texas and had it shipped to AZ where I live. It starts up right away but noticed that is has a power steering leak. The leak seems to be coming from two different spots, one being right in front of the driver closer to the fire wall and the other on the passenger side closer to the headlight. Since I am a total new guy to Z cars and........cars in general I would like to know where I can add more power steering fluid until I get it fixed. I see what looks like transmission fluid (its redish in color) near the place of the second leak but I don't want to mix up fluids in my car! I looked at every cap I could find under my hood but nothing said power steering unless the guy swapped out the caps on accident somehow. Any help finding this would be great.

Thanks

 

z power steering uses atf not power steering fluid. usually red. there should be a round black can on the right side of the engine compartment forward. it will have a hose running from it to the power steering pump which is also there. (unless my memory is confusing a z31 with a s130)

 

Welcome to ZDriver! Sounds like your Z needs some attention and you will be giving it some of that. You are just catching up on basic maintenance that wasn't done by the previous owners. Not a problem for us. When you finally get it running the way you want, you will be hooked for life. That's a promise! Nothing like a Z!

For starters, you have a copy of your Factory Service Manual (FSM) - or you can download it from XenonS130 - S130 Reference There are other good docs there, too, so DL 'em all, read and keep 'em handy.

Looks like your FSM, Section ST, pages 9-15 and forward can answer a lot of your basic power steering questions. Take some time to get familiar with your FSM organization and check out the inspection & troubleshooting sections for the stuff you want to work right. They are step-by-step, easy to follow. Everybody here uses their FSM all the time and will refer you to it.

The FSM also tells you how to run a basic ECU (computer) diagnostic to get any trouble codes your ECU is putting out. (Try Section EL.) This gives a kind of basic profile of your Z’s general health. It’s not precise or complete as newer diagnostic ECUs are, but it is from your own ECU which makes it useful.

Be sure to post some pics of your new Z for us when you get a chance!

Thanks and welcome again!

 

I know exactly what you are talking about. Thought I was crazy because I know what ATF looks like but at the same time I knew I traced the lines correctly. Thanks for the input.

 

Thanks for the warm welcome. It is in pretty ruff shape as is, but I already love it. I will download that stuff ASAP to get some of that basic knowledge I need. I appreciate it.

 

You're welcome. Just come back with any questions you have. People here like to help and it's OK not to know an answer.