2240 Steering rebuild

[dcyrilc]

Has any body ever torn the steering column out of a 2240 and rebuilt it? I just bought a used JD 2240 with three major problems for me to fix. The first one is done and now it's time for the steering problem. I have about a full wheel turn of play in the steering. When I took a close look tonight to identify the problem, I found the the steering wheel and shaft rises or lowers about 1/4 to 3/8 inch as you turn the steering wheel before the wheels start to turn. I'm assuming it is a problem with one of the thrust bearings in the shaft. Anybody have any warnings or advise?

 

[kennyd]

No warnings/advice, other than to register at www.jdparts.com so you can see what parts are in there.

This is the same basic system that the parts guy's use at the dealer-so you need to "think like a parts guy" when you use it...the best part is that it is FREE!

 

[dcyrilc]

OK, here are pix of what I found when I turned the wheel from one end of the slop point to the other.

I'm thinking that it might have something to do with one of the thrust bearings or the associated snap rings.

Anyone have any other ideas?

 

[dcyrilc]

I'm getting ready to do the steering housing removal per the tech manual. One of the first steps is removing the transmission shield (a plate over the trans with the shifter boots in it). with it removed, I can see the ball on the shift levers. This area is packed with grease and dirt. Will it cause any problems if I pressure wash this area with the transmission shield removed?

Cyril

 

[dcyrilc]

OK here's where I definately need advice. I'm in new territory here.

The shaft has some minor pitting and wear that I can feel with my fingers where the upper seal rides on it. Should I replace the shaft because of it?

Also, where the O-rings ride on the outside of the valve body assemblies, ther are black marks left from the wear of the old O-rings. I assume that this needs to be cleaned off so that the new O-rings will seal correctly. How do I clean it? I was thinking to do it with emery cloth. Is this correct? The old O-rings that seal around the valve bodies are worn about 1/2 way through and one was broken.

Besides the O-rings and seals which come in the rebuild kit and maybe a new shaft, is there anything else I should be evaluating for replacement?

Here are pix of what I found with the parts.

Cyril

 

[kennyd]

Try using a solvent like lacquer thinner first to get the black of, if that does not work then try very fine Emory cloth-like 600 or so and keep it lubricated with mineral spirits-you just want to polish it, not remove material.

 

[dcyrilc]

Thanks Kennyd

 

[dcyrilc]

The more I think about it and look at how the valve assembly works - I think my first assesment was incorrect.

I found a broken O-ring upon disasembly and it seems that what may have been happening is that the steering piston wasn't responding until I completed a full turn of the wheel. Basically - My steering was all or nothing.

I still don't quite understand what causes the valves to open, but I can watch them work as I move the assembly one direction or the other from center on the shaft.

Anyone have any ideas what might cause no steering until full activation of the valve?

 

[AKKAMAAN]

The more I think about it and look at how the valve assembly works - I think my first assesment was incorrect.

I found a broken O-ring upon disasembly and it seems that what may have been happening is that the steering piston wasn't responding until I completed a full turn of the wheel. Basically - My steering was all or nothing.

I still don't quite understand what causes the valves to open, but I can watch them work as I move the assembly one direction or the other from center on the shaft.

Anyone have any ideas what might cause no steering until full activation of the valve?

Here is a link to a JD forum....it is about power steering problems.....seems there are some similar stuff that you are dealing with...
Link

 

[AKKAMAAN]

Sorry I have zero experience from that JD power steering valve, need more drawings to figure out how that one works...

If you are thinking about replaceing that power steering valve (JD), I would recommend a look at the Danfoss Sauer Orbitrol, DSO, valve I have experienced equipment having 20000+ hours with NO problems on the DSO valve. I might work little different, but allows emergency steering if pump/engine goes down, and it will NEVER allow steering wheel turn with out reaction on steering "tires"...
They have the same hook up as your valve, P, T, A and B. Open center and Closed center are both available.....here is a part list of the DSO valve. NO ORINGS that wear out. NO REBUILD necessary, they last forever, in a normally clean hydraulic system.
The DSO cost more but wont be a hassle for you.
Btw, Eaton hydraulic makes a similar valve...
This pdf shows a little more about hook up, and power beyond.....