fluid leak problem

[nspctr1]

On my 75 FJ40 I noticed fluid leak coming down the drivers side springs and steering column. I first thought the brake or clutch master were leaking but after a quick check of all connections I found no evidence of leaks. After that I glanced down to the steering box and believe the fluid to be coming from there. Could that just blow a seal that quick. It hasn't been under any load or duress, Hell, I dont drive it but a half a dozen times a month if that. I wish I knew how to post pics on this site and I would show you exactly where it is but, If you look right behind the drivers side tire there is a steering box that the column goes into and where the steering arm comes out it looks like the fluid is coming from there. Any ideas. is this common? Is it a hard fix?
thanks

 

[Trevor]

It's a common leak. Mine does it, I just keep adding more gear oil to the box. I don't think it's hard to replace the seal, I'm just lazy and don't feel like fixing it. The only hard part is getting the pitman arm off the steering box.

 

[IDave]

Clutch/brake masters will leak down the firewall, not on other connections so much. It could easily end up where you are seeing this fluid.

Does it smell like gear oil? If so, it is likely your steering box.

If it smells like brake fluid, then it is most likely one of your MCs.

 

[nspctr1]

Yeah, it's gear oil. coming from the steering box. The MC's are new, doesn't mean they wont leak though, but, How hard is it to replace that seal or is it OK to run it that way for a while even though it leaks like a sieve. I lost probably 3-4 oz overnite.