C3 Power steering Control Valve

[Dennis A.]

I installed a new-rebuilt control valve and new hoses on my '69 power steering. Manual bleed the fluid in with the power steering cylinder disconnected and the engine off. Things looked good. Started the engine and fluid went everywhere...All the lines were tight with no leaks. the source seemed to be under the seal under the pitman arm or the control valve seal where it bolts together... Any/all suggestions on how to fix this or could the rebuilt control valve be bad???

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 Power steering Control Valve

Dennis-----

Assuming that you have all of the hoses connected correctly, I would say that the problem involves a defective valve. Double check the hoses before coming to that conclusion, though. Either way, though, the valve will need to be replaced.

[Chas Henderson #28127]

Re: C3 Power steering Control Valve

Dennis,

I don't know if this is part of the problem, but never grease the zerk on the valve. Doing so has a tendency to blow the seal out. If you have had on apart you will see what I mean. Just grease that area when you put it together.

Chasman

[John H.]

Re: C3 Power steering Control Valve

Good point - most replacement control valves (new or rebuilt) have, either stamped on the box, on a card in the box, or on a tag affixed to the valve, a very prominent warning NOT to grease that zerk or the valve warranty will be void. That fitting is only for use during valve assembly, and most recent valves don't even have the zerk - they have a plug instead. If you take the car to a quick-lube/oil change place and your valve has a fitting, be SURE the guy in the pit doesn't grease it, or you'll be replacing the valve again.