'99 T&C, 255k miles... with the intense heat here on the east coast I'm using the AC a lot, and because I use the van to transport rescue dogs there are times when I have to let the van sit running for 10-15 minutes at a time with the AC on. I'm finding that when I do that the steering fluid starts leaking out right under where the steering wheel is. If I let it sit for 5 minutes or so the steering will start clicking once I get moving but will stop clicking after a few minutes driving. I've had the van for about 1½ years and never had to add steering fluid. Can the AC affect the steering system somehow?

 

In short answer form NO. there is an oil cooler, and many small connecting rubber hoses for the P/steering system in the area you describe. These are low pressure in the return half of the system. at the age of your van, a clamp or hose may be leaking from the heat. Time to go underneath and track it down!