Small leak under power steering pump, need part i.d.

2011, base access cab, 4 cylinder

I have a small leak from a component directly under the power steering pump (almost positive it's not coming from the pump). In the attached close up picture you can see red residue on the bolts for the component and the white wire clip that is dead center is moist. Almost positive it is leaking power steering fluid based on the reservoir being low. What is this part and what is the repair?

 

Looks like the coolant bypass pipe, the residue is dried coolant.

 

Interesting. The part does connect to the lower radiator hose. Is this a part with a name that can be purchased? I may have two problems since my power steering reservoir was low and I just noticed by radiator fluid reservoir is also low (but the radiator itself is topped off). Maybe I could add some UV dye to the power steering fluid.

 

It's called the coolant bypass pipe, the factory one is plastic but the updated one is metal.

If there are no visible external power steering leaks it may be the rack leaking internally.

 

Small stains on my driveway occasionally and small drop (not red) of liquid on one of the metal lines under the engine. I think the leak is collecting on the line and forming the drop, but the line is not the source of the leak (but it is below the area of the power steering pump). Can't tell from smell and feel what type of fluid since it's a stain and not a puddle.

 

Check your steering rack bellows for a waterline indicating seepage. It is a very common problem affecting 2nd/3rd gen Tacomas and 4th/5th gen 4Runners.

Also check the power steering hard lines running along the frame crossmembers. They can develop pinholes from corrosion.

 

Regarding the leak at the coolant bypass pipe, this thread may help with part numbers and description of how to replace: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2007-2-7l-coolant-bypass-pipe-replacement-info-photos.805019/

 

Much thanks. Not sure if that is a separate problem since my brake fluid reservoir was low on fluid. To be expected since it's a 2011 with 125,000 miles. Will get under it with a bright light when I get a chance, and maybe use some UV dye in the power steering fluid.

 

It's a separate problem as you can see dried pink coolant on the two studs holding the coolant bypass pipe flange and also dried coolant on the plastic bypass pipe itself. This should be addressed as soon as you can as a busted pipe can lead to quick engine overheat and possible extensive damage.

 

Thanks for the heads up. Would have to pull over immediately and shut it down if it sprung a big leak. Repair looks like a challenge. Will have to have both leaks addressed and anticipate it will cost me well over a grand since mechanics charge around $120/hr plus inflated OEM parts cost these days. Will only use it for short trips until I can budget the repair. Will use my Avalon for longer trips.

This is an excellent how to video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHT7JlICgLE&t=8s&ab_channel=mjSchmidtMedia