Power steering fluid smells 'burnt'

[P4trol]

Been trying to figure out a sound I can hear while driving. Other people can't pick it, but I swear it is fairly recognisable. Sometimes while idling, usually coming to a stop with clutch in. Doesn't matter if moving or not.

It has the frequency of a loose belt, with a bottle of a low squeak, but have done the belt grip thing and it's still the same.

Tonight I thought I would check power steering levels (all good), but the fluid smells 'burnt'. Not like the normal oily smell. Coincidence?

http://www.nissanpatrol.com.au/forums/images/imported/2012/10/57.jpg

That's it, the browny patch. I swear it's power steering fluid!

What common problems may be irking?

2.8 GU



Tipsy-tap

[threedogs]

LMFAO sooooo many answers to that one, Fluid hasn't spilt somehow on the belt to give the burning smell??
Power steering fluid Yeah right lol

[P4trol]

It's straight from the dip stick to the rag, that's where I smelt it.



Tipsy-tap

[nissannewby]

Belts could be worn mate causing noise they go hard from under bonnet temps easy cheap fix. As for your power steering fluid it just looks old hence the burnt smell, give her a good flush and throw in some fresh oil and away you go.

[P4trol]

Cool... I feared the worst.

Will give it a go.



Tipsy-tap

[choppie]

You may need to check if your steering is central, if it is not the steering pump will be working all the time and that will burn the oil.
Easy check while driving on straight level road let the steering wheel go and if it dives left or right, you need a wheel alignment.