If your van is leaking Power Steering fluid, first check the fluid level and look for visible leaks around the power steering pump, hoses, and reservoir. Clean the area to identify the source of the leak more easily. If the leak is minor, you might be able to tighten fittings or replace a worn hose, but if the leak is significant, it's advisable to consult a mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair. In the meantime, avoid driving the vehicle to prevent steering failure.
The only red fluid in that van is transmission fluid.
most likely cause is your heater core leaking
No, but transmission fluid can be used for power steering...
The powersteering reservoir has the filler tube molded on/in it.
There is no powersteering fluid. It is electronic.
red fluid is transmission fluid and could be leaking from several locations around the transmission. Check the cooler lines where they go into the radiator, the seals where the axles go into the transmission, but most likely is a leaking pan gasket, etc. The only good way to find it is to look under the van and see where the wet spot is located
right by the oil
Almost all powersteering fluids are universal, but read on the back for remended usage, this will guarantee you have the correct one. Might sound stupid but read the owners manual . Ford switched on some of later stuff to Mercon ATF . But that still should be powersteering fluid . Use Prestone with leakgaurd . I have Chevy van with leaking low pressure line and this stuff stays in 4 times as long as cheap stuff . Yes I know I should fix line but its a 77 with hydroboost . Real pain .
automatic trasmission fluid is the same as powersteering fluid
The better question is what is leaking transmission fluid?
The antifreeze, transmission, and power steering all use red fluids. It could be either.
It Is On the driver side (under bonnet) right at the back of the engine next to the brake fluid.