I'm in the process of investigating a potential new oil leak, and looking at the necessity of removing the stiffening plate to see where the oil is coming from. I know I have weeping power steering lines, which I intend to replace over the Thanksgiving weekend. I have also seen what appears to be oil on the ground, dripping from the front opening in the stiffening plate. What I'm curious about is, could this fluid dripping from this front opening simply be old oil (from previous oil leaks which I fixed), being mixed with ATF from my power steering lines, since the foam on top of the stiffening plate can hold quite a bit of oil itself?
Now my question: I understand the bolts for the stiffening plate are one-time-use, torque to yield bolts. Should I also buy new nuts for these bolts?
Any advice / tips on removal and replacement of the stiffening plate is greatly appreciated.
EDIT: Please only feedback if you've replaced the bolts / nuts for your stiffening plate. I understand this is a matter of personal preference, and have no desire whatsoever to re-start the argument of whether this is necessary. Having worked in the plant where my X was built for nearly 15 years, I have my own opinion on the matter, and feel no obligation to argue the point. Thanks.