Quote:
Originally Posted by Straycat
Hi Guys,
I have a S reg 98 S8 D2, it is a great car for its age even though its got 156000 on the clock the interior is absolutely not 156000 and the body has a few small scratches on it and again no more than you would expect on that age of car. I have a few problems how ever with the running in that I have now got a steering fluid leak and can see it dripping from under the drivers side in line with the lower suspension arm rear rubber mount, this looks to be to far back for the rack so was wondering if anyone knows what might be in that area, I have just topped up the fluid in the steering pump resivour as the pump started to make a noise so the leak is steering fluid. The other problem is very poor starting in the cold weather, I put a new battery on it this time last year and was great up to winter. Have got good charging voltage when engine is running so thinking the battery is buggered? going to get it checked out when I can get some time off work when the place I got it from is open! How much power is used when the car is parked up for the night? Is the model known for being a bit battery hungry?
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A leak in the area you're describing could be either the rack, high-pressure union (loose?) or the high-pressure line itself. The rack is a bitch to replace with the motor and trans in situ, but possible. I've replaced the rack in an A8 2,8 QS, and that was a pig, I would imagine it'll be worse in V8-engined models.
When you say the car is a poor starter in cold weather, is it hard to start as in the motor turns over slower than normal? Or it cranks fast, but seems reluctant to fire? If it's slow, and you've got a good battery, then it's worth checking your battery earth strap in the trunk, make sure the chassis bolt is secure, the terminals are nice and tight. I would also be looking at the starter motor connections. If they're all in good shape, then your starter motor itself could be a bit tired.
Work does take me to Norwich on occasion, we might be able to arrange to meet up, and I could take a look. PM me details, if that fits in with your schedule.