Power Steering Fluid Question

[chato de shamrock]

Guys, i have a question regarding the fluid in the reservoir. I was looking to buying a ‘96 240 and while looking through the engine while it was running i noticed the power steering fluid (AT fluid) in the reservoir jumping all over the place within the reservoir. Had the cover been off the fluids would have definitely been pouring out a bit. It didnt look to be bubbling like boiling water and i didnt open the reservoir to see if it was foaming. It just looked to be jumping around pretty rapidly all over the place. I never recall that happening with my previous 240 or ever heard of that happening with cars. Is that normal or a sure bet to a future issue with the fluid line or steering pimp? As always, thanks in advanced and moderators forgive if i posted this in the wrong place. I believe this is my first post created regarding an engine question.

[TheRealSy90]

Yeah that's why there's a lid on the reservoir, to keep it in the reservoir.

[dmitrysgarage]

I've seen this on other cars, never had an issue. It can be normal for the fluid to jump around in the reservoir. Unless what you're seeing is something really extreme, I wouldn't worry about it. Maybe post a video if you think it is. AT fluid loses viscosity fast as it heats up. If you're at an operating temp of say 180F then ATF is going to be pretty thin and easy to slosh around. I'd be more worried about leaks, weird noises, excess play, and steering feel/effort.

[chato de shamrock]

Thanks for your input. I didnt notice any weird noises except the overall ride was a bit louder than my old car. I had a base, this is an SE. i had a dual stock exhaust and this was a single but looked to be stock. The steering wheel did feel a bit stiffer making turns than i recall my old ride being. Besides the AC needing to be recharged, the steering wheel feeling stiffer than i remember my old car being, and the fluid jumping around similar to pouring water on a bowl or deep container and making it splash around in the container from side to side, the ride seemed cool.

[tuzzio]

Its 2018 and the car is 20+ years old.

Also, forget everything about your old ride. No 2 cars are the same.

[Sailor]

Small questions thread?