1. Locate the Leak:
* Visual Inspection: Start the engine (briefly!), turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock, and carefully inspect the entire power steering system. Look for:
* Wet spots: Obvious dripping or damp areas on hoses, pump, rack and pinion, pressure lines, and fittings.
* Fluid trails: Follow any trails of power steering fluid to find the source.
* Shine a light: Use a flashlight to illuminate hard-to-see areas. Power steering fluid is usually reddish or brownish.
* Clean the area: Before you start looking for leaks, clean the area around the power steering system thoroughly. This will make it easier to spot fresh leaks.
* Use a pressure test kit: A power steering pressure test kit can help pinpoint leaks that aren't readily apparent. This is recommended if you can't easily find the source visually. A mechanic is usually best equipped to use this.
2. Common Leak Sources and Fixes:
Once you've located the leak, here are the most likely culprits and potential fixes:
* Hoses: These are the most common source of leaks. If a hose is cracked, leaking at a clamp, or severely deteriorated, it needs to be replaced. This is usually a relatively straightforward repair, but you might need specialized hose clamps.
* Power Steering Pump: Leaks can originate from the pump's seals or shaft. Repairing a pump is often more complex and may require a rebuild or complete replacement. This is usually a more expensive repair.
* Rack and Pinion: Leaks here are usually from seals within the rack and pinion unit. This is a very involved repair that usually requires specialized tools and significant mechanical skill. Often, replacement is the only practical solution.
* Pressure Lines/Fittings: Leaks can occur at the fittings where the lines connect to the pump, rack, and other components. Tightening a loose fitting might temporarily resolve a leak, but if the fitting is damaged, it needs replacement. Be cautious tightening as you could damage the lines or fittings.
* Power Steering Reservoir: A crack or damage to the reservoir itself is less common but possible. This usually requires replacement.
3. Repair or Replacement:
* Minor Leaks (hose clamps): Tightening loose clamps might temporarily solve minor leaks. However, if the hose is deteriorated, replace it.
* Significant Leaks (hoses, pump, rack and pinion, lines): These usually require replacement of the damaged component. This involves draining the power steering fluid, disconnecting the old part, installing the new part, and refilling the system with the correct type of fluid.
Important Considerations:
* Type of Fluid: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified for your 1999 Suburban in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the system.
* Safety: Power steering fluid is under pressure when the engine is running. Be cautious when working on the system. Wear safety glasses.
* Difficulty: Some repairs are relatively easy (hose replacement), while others are very difficult and require special tools and expertise (rack and pinion). If you're not comfortable performing the repairs yourself, take your Suburban to a qualified mechanic.
Before you start any repairs, consult your owner's manual for specific information and diagrams for your vehicle's power steering system. Improper repairs can lead to further damage and costly repairs.
