Which characteristic does NOT apply to a remote mounted power steering reservoir?

A remote mounted power steering reservoir is typically designed to work in conjunction with the power steering system, providing fluid storage and helping to maintain adequate hydraulic pressure. One of its essential characteristics is that it is often vented to the atmosphere to prevent vacuum formation within the reservoir that could affect fluid flow.

Additionally, a remote mounted reservoir is typically installed outside of the engine compartment for better accessibility and cooling purposes, which aligns with the characteristic of being mounted higher than the power steering pump to facilitate fluid return via gravity.

Having said that, while many reservoirs utilize sealing methods, remote mounted power steering reservoirs do not necessarily need to be sealed with an O-ring or gasket. They can be designed to be vented, meaning that they may not require a complete seal to ensure pressure balance and fluid flow. This makes venting to the atmosphere a more applicable characteristic, so there's less emphasis on needing an O-ring/gasket seal.

In contrast, an O-ring or gasket is more commonly associated with ensuring fluid retention in systems subjected to higher pressures or where complete containment is essential. Thus, stating that a remote mounted power steering reservoir is 'sealed with an O-ring or gasket' does not typically describe the common characteristics of such reservoirs.