Power steering woes, interesting...? Options

[samir0189]

So, I know I've been leaking p/s fluid, I haven't yet gotten to check from where exactly. On cold start, there is an intermittent noise that sounds like "errr-wheeeet, errr-wheeeet" with about a 1 second interval.

I'm guessing it is the pump... but also, there is an excess of white smoke that looks like condensation from the tail pipe (continuous, not valve seal startup poof, and not coolant, no sweet smell.) I've read on lexus forums that there is some sort of valve that dumps p/s fluid into the intake manifold and causes that smoke, with a fuel-like "rich" smell?

So I ask, is this what is really going on.. do I need to get this valve (if it exists) new? Or is it the bad pump that is forcing p/s fluid up and into the intake mani? Any ideas welcomed...

[mkernz22]

the power steering doesn't touch the intake manifold what so ever.
as for the smell, it always smells on a regular start up for me. that's normal.

you're reading about lexus stuff, this is toyota. yes the companies are the same, but the engines are different. different engines equals different results. i have a smell from my car when i warm it up in the cold or even on a cold start, it's a normal thing.

as for the leaking fluid, check around your steering rack and PS pump