Subject: V8Q and pentosin?

[C1J1Miller@aol.com]

Peter Sward wrote:
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I have a small leak underneath what I believe is the pentosin container
(labeled
hydralic mineral oil?). The recent postings referred to this as liquid gold so
what do I have to do to fix this? New container or hose or what? Is this
expensive/difficult? Since this is an V8Q it has to be expensive, right?
Any info appriciated
91 V8Q 5 speed
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First thing to do is check the source of the leak.  There's a braided hose
connection at the bottom of the plastic reservoir that typically "sweats" a
bit; this connection is held on by a hose clamp.  Either tighten the clamp a
bit, or replace the section of hose (you may be able to shorten it, but likely
there's not enough extra slack).  Braided hose is pretty inexpensive at the VW
dealer, I've heard.  Clean off the container and below it (simple green works
well) and see if the leak returns.  Sounds like a small leak; do you ever add
pentosin?  Max/Min marks are on the side; I think you check while the engine
is running...
Other leaks might point at a leaky steering rack: grab the rubber bellows and
see if they are firm (i.e., full of fluid; this is bad), or if there's
staining below them.  Could also be a different hose end; haven't seen this at
the reservoir end, though.  Leaks at the steering pump and bomb are not really
under the reservoir area, as you stated.
Cost?  quattro list advice is inexpensive (although usually worth more than
you pay for it).  Usual payment is in beer at some unspecified time in the
future; quantity proportional to $$ saved by not going to the dealer.  I think
the most expensive part of owning the V8 is past (think of the depreciation
the original owner had to deal with...).
chris miller, windham nh, c1j1miller@aol.com