* Pump Failure: The power steering pump relies on the belt to turn it. Without the belt, the pump suddenly stops. However, the engine continues to rotate the crankshaft, and the internal components of the pump may become damaged due to this sudden stop, leading to leaks or failure of seals and subsequent fluid expulsion.
* Pressure Build-up: The power steering system is designed to generate pressure. When the pump stops functioning, this pressure has nowhere to go, except possibly through weak points in the system like seals or lines. This pressure relief can force fluid out of any vulnerable points.
* Fluid Reservoir Overflow: Some power steering systems have a reservoir that can overflow if the pressure is too high. The sudden pressure release from the pump stopping could force fluid out of the reservoir's overflow tube.
In short, the immediate cessation of the power steering pump's operation while the engine continues running creates an imbalance in the system. This imbalance, combined with the sudden pressure change, can cause the power steering fluid to spew out.
