Power Steering Damage? HELP DIAGNOSE!

[Ape Runner]

Was wheeling near Mammoth and incurred some damage. I was driving along a washboard road about 35mph and then hit some deep ruts, like woops, and it was really rough. Felt like I was riding a bucking bull!

I didn't hear any pops or breaking noises. When I arrived at my destination a couple minutes later a took a look under ther car and front and rear suspension to make sure all was good. Drivers Side wheel well, aft of the shock/spring, was all wet with red oil. I looked underneath and stuff was wet too.

Examined under hood and there was some oil around the batter, looked like splashing/spraying to get up there. I checked all lines running to the wheel area and found no tearing. Checked Tie Rod End and nothing felt broken (I jacked up the wheel and did the wiggle test). No leaks found initially around transmission pan, bellhousing, cooler lines (which would be Passenger Side anyway). No leaks found initially around steering rack. Fluid in PS Reservoir looks a little low, so I'm leaning towards a steering pump/rack issue.

So obviously I need to get under the car and investigate more. Drove home 300 miles without issue.

Looking for any ideas or similar stories.

Thanks!

 

[BrianSD_42]

Drivers Side wheel well, aft of the shock/spring, was all wet with red oil. I looked underneath and stuff was wet too.

Is this the only symptom?

Pls post a picture.