What is this?

[ex-Chinese Dave]

What is this on my 172 Cup?

It’s in front of the alternator on the right hand side of the car. Is this an oil temperature sensor? The oil on it must have come from it leaking as there’s nothing anywhere else. Is it an easy fix/change?

I need to buy a Haynes manual for the Cup 😕

 

[Matt Cup]

Power steerting switch iirc.

 

[ex-Chinese Dave]

Thanks. Is it an easy change or does the fluid pour out when you take it out?

 

[Matt Cup]

I think if you are quick you shouldn’t lose too much fluid. However I haven’t changed one myself so am happy to be corrected.

 

[Mr Underhill]

Thanks. Is it an easy change or does the fluid pour out when you take it out?

Oil won't pour out if you just unplug the switch to clean up, only if you unscrew it. As above, oil will come out so have a bung ready.

P/N - 497610324R

 

[Advikaz]

Flux capacitor

 

[JamesBryan]

I thought they were on a Schrader valve type setup so no fluid would be lost?

 

[Robbie Corbett]

I don't remember any fluid coming out when I changed mine. Its not under pressure when the engine isn't running. They can leak through the sensor its self and if you are very unlucky I've read that the centre of the sensor can pop out which = big mess and no power steering, how true that is I don't know.

Dead easy to change.

 

[JimF]

Can confirm dead easy to change.
Oil will come out, as in a dribble, but get the replacement ready and just put your thumb over the end when the old one is removed and clean up the drips with a rag afterwards. It's not like changing the spray gun whilst the hosepipe is on.

 

[JimF]

They can leak through the sensor its self and if you are very unlucky I've read that the centre of the sensor can pop out which = big mess and no power steering, how true that is I don't know.

Mine developed a pinhole leak. Held pressure when not being used, but sprayed like feck when you turned the wheel.

 

[hopgop1]

Sorry to hijack this, but does anyone know who makes the genuine switch? Or will a decent aftermarket one do? I’m sure mine is weeping, so would be good to change if it’s an easy job. Just not sure it’s worth doing at the min for the £40 RPD want for a genuine switch.

 

[JamesBryan]

Sorry to hijack this, but does anyone know who makes the genuine switch? Or will a decent aftermarket one do? I’m sure mine is weeping, so would be good to change if it’s an easy job. Just not sure it’s worth doing at the min for the £40 RPD want for a genuine switch.

Febi one looks identical.