Branson steering cylinder leak

sidecarist · Aug 11, 2017

Help.... I have a Branson 4520 with a steering cylinder that leaks from both ends. its a steady drip when its running.

The cylinder is captured between cast end caps that are bolted to the axle. When the steering wheel is turned the cylinder moves a small distance between the end caps, 1/16"-1/8" or so. I'm assuming that this small movement has worn the end cap seals.

I've never taken this type of cylinder apart before. I'm guessing that it is just O-Ring sealed. Does anyone have a service manual that shows the cylinder construction and seals?

Any help/guidance will be appreciated.

gsgator · Apr 14, 2020

I see this is an old thread. Did you ever get an answer? I'm dealing with this issue right now.

sidecarist · Apr 14, 2020

gsgator said:
I see this is an old thread. Did you ever get an answer? I'm dealing with this issue right now.

No answer from here... I ultimately found out that it was a known problem from Branson. They will replace the cylinder with an updated design that has a tie rod bolt holding the end caps in place. I waited too long and they wouldn't cover it under warranty... I don't recall the cost but it wasn't too bad. replacing the cylinder wasn't hard at all just be careful to not break the tie rod ends. Tie rod end pullers are available for rent at many auto parts stores. I also measured the overall length of each end so I could put them back in the same place to maintain alignment.
Hope this helps...