Power Steering Leaks and Lag

[bslyth]

I'm kind of new to the auto repair scene, and very new to NICO. I bought a 1997 Q45 in January.
The car is a joy to drive and I have no mechanical problems that I can tell, except for the Power Steering.
Occasionally the steering gives and I have to turn the wheel by force (it still works, just without aid from the PS), and I notice little stains forming wherever I park. I know it is the fluid (checked with a paper towel, letting it drip, and referred to the location of the system). If anyone has had the same problem (or knows of it) could you lead me to a solution?
I am in no sense a mechanic (I can change oil, fluids, air filters and easy access stuff though).
Thanks in advance

[Q451990]

Welcome to NICO!

Is the fluid level in the reservoir good? If it's low you'll usually notice some chattering and noise, especially at startup. In terms of fixing the leak, we'll need to know exactly what's leaking... I've seen leaks on the low pressure hoses to the reservoir, high pressure lines, or the steering rack itself.

[bslyth]

Last I checked the fluid it was just under max (after driving). As to where the fluids leak from, I have no clue. When I get the car on a lift I can check through those.

[bslyth]

So the leaking was actually transmission, and I had that rebuilt. The steering is not leaking, but doesn't always engage fully. There are times when I'm cruising and take a turn and right then the power steering really locks in and it turns like butter, but generally I have to muscle the wheel a bit. It's definitely on, but not fully...if that makes sense?

[Q451990]

If the steering feels notchy when it's acting up, it would be worth inspecting the u-joint between the steering column and the rack. I had one fail once, but it was worse when cold. After the exhaust warmed it up, it would loosen up.

[bslyth]

What do you mean by notchy? It seems to slide smoothly no matter what, just at times does not engage.
Who knows maybe I have been driving w/o power steering at all this whole time.

Also would that be something I can check myself w/o a lift?

[Q451990]

"Notchy" is probably a weird description. In my case it would be hard to turn and then easy, depending on the position of the steering wheel. You would need to at least have the car up on jack stands to check it.