I have a 2003 SE 6 speed that has a power steering leak on the return hose that runs along the firewall from the rack and pinion to the cooler tube. This pic is from a 2001 so it's slightly different:


The leak is where the hose connects to the cooler tube near the passenger side.

It looks like the previous owner used something like flex seal to try and stop the leak but it obviously didn't hold up. I have a few problems with this hose.
1. It looks like it should be a couple of inches longer, going past the metal lip.
2. The hose is discontinued for a manual transmission so I can't buy a replacement
3. This is not an easy area to work in
4. It has a spring clamp that I can't remove because one squeeze tab is broken



Can I use a return hose from another Nissan that'll fit? 2004 Maxima?
I'm looking for any suggestions on how to fix and if someone has a spare hose for a 2002/2003 manual that they're willing to sell.

Thanks,

 

when those hoses get old and brittle fluid starts to seep pass them. the factory clamps make it worse, they lose tension over the years. the factory hoses are pretty pricey so just get like 3 feet of a good quality transmission cooler hose and new clamps. Ebay sellers sell transmission cooler hose by the foot....



prices @ nissanpartsdeal.com

 

Thanks for the info. I'll look into getting a transmission hose with the same/similar dimensions.

 

hose size is 3/8" or 9.5mm

 

I was doing mine this morning and this is how I ended up running the hose, need to go get 2 more clamps though. you don't want to make sharp bends with the hose which is why I looped it. make sure the cooling tube is clean for maximum cooling efficiency.

 

Thanks, I appreciate all the info.

 

I'm also going to add in a power steering filter ...

 

I replaced the return hose after 6 hours of sweat, blood, and tears. I had to remove the UIM and the insulator to get to the broken clamp to cut it with a Dremel. It's been 10 days and around 300 miles and no leaks so I'm happy with my sacrifice .

@uptownsamcv Thanks for your info.

 

I actually just got done installing a new power steering pump a few days ago. I should have put loctite on the nut when I installed the underdrive pulley. the pulley came loose and rounded out the splines on the pulley and the shaft it was mounted to.. as much of a pain in the *** it was to install the tensioner I'm just leaving the stock pulley on there. the under drive crank pulley and lightweight alternator pulley will do for now.