Power Steering and Trans Lines

[fredcook]

One of our Gen/900's, an '08 Z71, is starting to show age on its power steering and transmissions lines. At 260,000+ miles, they are ever so slightly starting to seep. Not quite wet yet, but dust is building where rummer meets metal. I intend to head the leaks off at the pass.

My first inclination is to go with OEM. I have no issues with that. After all, no real issues at 260,000 miles. A previous Z71 we had never developed leaks up to the day I sold it with 310,000 on it. Our LTZ has close to 170k, and lines are dry. Neither of these vehicles have ever had their lines replaced. Replacing the '08 lines will be a first. But, keeping an open mind, I'm curious to hear from anyone that successfully used after market lines for power steering and/or transmission. Good, bad, etc.?

 

[rockola1971]

One of our Gen/900's, an '08 Z71, is starting to show age on its power steering and transmissions lines. At 260,000+ miles, they are ever so slightly starting to seep. Not quite wet yet, but dust is building where rummer meets metal. I intend to head the leaks off at the pass.

My first inclination is to go with OEM. I have no issues with that. After all, no real issues at 260,000 miles. A previous Z71 we had never developed leaks up to the day I sold it with 310,000 on it. Our LTZ has close to 170k, and lines are dry. Neither of these vehicles have ever had their lines replaced. Replacing the '08 lines will be a first. But, keeping an open mind, I'm curious to hear from anyone that successfully used after market lines for power steering and/or transmission. Good, bad, etc.?

I got my lines for my Hydroboost from rockauto and I didnt pay for OEM lines.

 

[alvocado]

If your trans cooler lines are in good shape and you are only having an issue with the rubber connections leaking, I recommend splicing in new rubber lines. You can carefully cut off the metal crimp with a dremel, install new rubber hose and use an earless step clamp to get a tight seal. The line tubing is barbed and holds a clamp well. Here’s a pic of mine from 2023 that is still leak free. It’s much easier than replacing the entire line. Use a step clamp, not a screw clamp. The screw can come loose and you’ll blow the line dumpling your fluid.

 

[B-train]

I agree with @alvocado , I did the same thing 4 years ago on my 2008 yukon when the lines were starting to get wet at the crimp fittings. Its a super easy way to go. Just get the same rated hose and good worm clamps, or oetiker clamps.

 

[alvocado]

I agree with @alvocado , I did the same thing 4 years ago on my 2008 yukon when the lines were starting to get wet at the crimp fittings. Its a super easy way to go. Just get the same rated hose and good worm clamps, or oetiker clamps.

Good reminder on the hose. I bought Gates 27057 Transmission Oil Cooler 3/8" hose off Amazon. A buddy bought some cheaper made in China hoses which did not hold up as well.

 

[solli5pack]

I've always gone with OEM on my trucks but might go with the cut and splice method moving foward. Especially since my 08 Yukon has the lines that pop into the top of the trans. That was a b**ch.

 

[fredcook]

Cut and splice for the trans! Great idea. Not sure why I didn't think of it. That was they way I did it many years ago on mu 60's and 70's muscle cars. Never had any issues. Thanks @alvocado and @B-train.

 

[fredcook]

I got my lines for my Hydroboost from rockauto and I didnt pay for OEM lines.

Thanks.

 

[fredcook]

Good reminder on the hose. I bought Gates 27057 Transmission Oil Cooler 3/8" hose off Amazon. A buddy bought some cheaper made in China hoses which did not hold up as well.

Thanks.

 

[fredcook]

I've always gone with OEM on my trucks but might go with the cut and splice method moving foward. Especially since my 08 Yukon has the lines that pop into the top of the trans. That was a b**ch.

Yeah, I was eyeing those connections...

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Ask for additional options and opinions, and you will receive them.

Just another reason why this Forum ROCKS!!

 

[alpha_omega]

If your trans cooler lines are in good shape and you are only having an issue with the rubber connections leaking, I recommend splicing in new rubber lines. You can carefully cut off the metal crimp with a dremel, install new rubber hose and use an earless step clamp to get a tight seal. The line tubing is barbed and holds a clamp well. Here’s a pic of mine from 2023 that is still leak free. It’s much easier than replacing the entire line. Use a step clamp, not a screw clamp. The screw can come loose and you’ll blow the line dumpling your fluid.

I've always gone with OEM on my trucks but might go with the cut and splice method moving foward. Especially since my 08 Yukon has the lines that pop into the top of the trans. That was a b**ch.

Cut and splice for the trans! Great idea. Not sure why I didn't think of it.

Here is another idea. They have some with barbed connections to fit the hose ends.

https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/103101/10002/-1

 

[alpha_omega]

Here’s another. I can’t find the one I was thinking of, maybe it’s made by Evil Energy. I’ll keep you posted if I find it.

https://www.jegs.com/i/Derale/259/13041/10002/-1

 

[rdezs]

The transmission hard lines are 3/8. Simply cut them with the tubing cutter, install a 3/8 compression to AN6 and decide what kind of hose you want to use. Stainless steel braided, reinforced push lock hose, several options that are much better than OEM.

Power steering lines I've had no problem with what Napa carries in stock.

 

[lspann3525]

I used the duralast power steering lines from autozone they even came with the cup seals that fit inside the rack and pinion