Power steering fluid loss

[ocheye]

I've noticed a sudden loss of power steering fluid and the reservoir is virtually empty. There is evidence of fluid immediately below the reservoir/pump on the 'chassis' and the underside of the pump is a bit damp. Is this likely to be an easy fix (e.g. use ps stop leak)? I've got enough Stag niggles at the moment without having to replace the steering rack and pump!
Andy

[Mike J]

Could be a split hose. Doesn't sound like the rack. Get some tissue and work upwards from the Gaiters on the rack and note where you start to pick up reddy brown oil. If it is a hose not that tricky to change.

[ocheye]

As I said, Mike, the fluid is sitting on the 'chassis' (the horizontal part rather than the inner wing) and has run off that on to various steering and other components below. There is some evidence of dripping from the underside of the pump, so I'm hoping that is responsible for the loss and that it can be cured with one of the power steering 'stop leak' products. There doesn't appear to be any leakage from where the hoses join the pump, however.