Any idea why this is? I have replace fluid many times and it always leaks out but the power steering has never failed on me. I have tried to tighten everything up to prevent the leaking but to tell the truth, it is so messy down there I cant tell where it comes from. Why would the system continue to work without fluid? Thought about replacing it, but why when when it still works?

 

I don't think it's completely without fluid. It seems a lot of these trucks have this power steering leak. Mine certainly does. It more than likely is coming from the pitman arm seal area or the lines on top of the steering box.

 

The pitman arm is soaked. I know it leaks there. Should I replace both units?

 

I don't think I understand what your mean by both units. If you replace the steering box it is only one unit. Lines connect to the top and the seal is in the bottom. If you are talking about both units being the pitman arm and steering box then check to see if there is any play in your pitman arm. Have somebody turn the wheel while you are underneath the truck. This will let you see if there is any play or not. Probably just need the box.

 

When I say both units I mean the steering box and the pump.

 

These systems apparently work ok with low fluid. I discovered a leak in Florida but decided to fix it at home. There was fuid all over the place. I purchased fluid to refill the system and to have on hand and drove to Texas. I never had to refill on the trip. Once home, I replaced the pressure hose and that cured the problem.