I wasn't paying attention so good when adding power steering fluid. Now the steering is sporadic and the car over heats quik. I think there's a common belt that drives both the steering and water pump. Will it dry over night? Can I hose down the innards? Any help or advice is appreciated cause I live in the country hand have a life or death meeting in the AM with no other way to get there or to work.

 

Power steering is a pressure system, which is one of the reasons for extra room in the reservoir. Also, like nearly all tranny fluid, it will also expand when up to temp. Another reason for space in the reservoir. If you can, it would be best to remove a bit of the extra fluid.

As for cleaning up- Simple Green is excellent for doing so. If you have some, great. Otherwise, a mild-to-medium strength mix of dish soap & water, or even shampoo & water, will help to remove at least a bit of the spillage. Just mix-up some in a plastic spray bottle, or even a cup and let it sit for 10-15 minutes on the pulley/s and belt/s. Then rinse it off with a light amount of water.

Yes, you can hose off the engine- just don't get carried away in volume or pressure.