What kind of fluid is this?

On my 96 Chevy Cavalier,
It has had a reputation of leaking power steering fluid .
Recently I have noticed an oily like substance around the top of
the engline block near the power steering pump. However sometimes
The power steering fluid reservoir is ok and the oil is low, but other
times the power steering fluid is low and the engine oil is fine. Does this
look like a power steering problem? I realy cant tell either way:screwy:

Here are some pictures:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2005/2433341680_e9e8d11e61.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3278/2433341158_814b239122.jpg

Thanks for any help!

Normally if its a valve cover leak it will just be a slow drip down the side of the head. That however, looks like power steering fluid to me.

I don't know, it almost looks like it an oil leak from around the bolt. Have you tried snuging the bolts down a tad?

Hey Blote.... yes, tighten down all the cover bolts. Clean off any old fluids on the engine. Monitor it daily.....once is it spanny clean...use a QTip and check for leaking areas...( Donk says....don't put it in your ear either !!)

But the most important fluid is the Amber Fluid....just make sure these is lots ing the frigie..... Cheers :}
JzJzz and the Man from Down Under.......

change the whole valve cover gasket. They are cheap and easy and known for leaks for people who don't watch them.. while you are there clean up everything.