Was the puddle on the passenger side of the car?

You probably splashed a load of water on the PS pump belt. It happened to me too.

Check the tension on the belt. Mine is a little loose.

 

Happens to me all the time. Well, it did, until I removed the power steering system....

 

where are you in california? if you dont mind me asking?

 

Yeah, probably a loose belt. Manual tensioners don't keep constant tension. I'd use a Krikit-II gauge, about $20 from Amazon.

Gates started new part number for this, old number was 91132 on Amazon:
http://www.gates.com/europe/brochure.cfm?brochure=2506&location_id=14668

 

this happens to mine as well.

 

I live in Altadena, north of Pasadena.

I'll check the belt tension. I heard a squeal a few days ago, too, so it's probably a loose PS belt, like you all suggested.

Thanks.

 

I would see if you have the front passenger wheel well intact because water could be splashing on the drive belt from the tires.