Leaking Power Steering fluid

[mitnworb]

Back on a super cold morning (-10) I started my 2004 S4 and drove it to my office, no problems till I got there. I backed up and saw a trail of some liquid, got out and looked under the car and saw power steering fluid pouring out. I got home lucky enough but steering got stiffer as I got closer. Due to warm weather (45), I was able to go out today and get underneath to see where the fluid might be leaking from, couldn't see any thing dripping or leaking anywhere. Went and got some cheap PS fluid so I could see where the fluid is coming from. I filled the reservoir and cranked the engine, the fluid was gone in an instant and leaking but I couldn't see one particular place where it was coming from. I think I have isolated the leaking from the pressure line or the steering rack. Any ideas what my next steps are. I was thinking of replacing the pressure lines hoping that's the problem. Is there any symptoms that would tell me its the rack for sure or the pressure line. I'm almost certain the pump is fine. What would you guys do? Thanks for any suggestions.

Tim

[craiglou]

Check the right side front by where the tie rod comes out and u proably see it leaking mines started doing that saturday also, i need to replace my stering rack now,found one with a 3 year warranty for $498 until u return the core u will get that $175 core charge back

[craiglou]

Check the right side front by where the tie rod comes out and u proably see it leaking mines started doing that saturday also, i need to replace my stering rack now,found one with a 3 year warranty for $498 until u return the core u will get that $175 core charge back

[mitnworb]

Thanks for the reply. I have looked up there and there is no sigh of fluid that I can see. I am leaning towards the pressure line(s). I think I will have someone crank the engine again while I look up from underneath to see if I can see where it might be coming from. I was trying to find some actual pictures of where the pressure lines run from the rack.