John Deere 4230 leak at steering column

[crossroadsd]

We have a John deere 4230 with a leak at the base of the steering column. This is a late model with a telescoping steering column. It looks like the leak is right at the top of the metering pump. I have a I&T shop manual that shows a oil seal (#27 in there drawing) at the base of the steering column. I am hoping that I can pull the column and replace the one seal and be done with it.

Just wanted to get some input before I got into this. Most of what I have been able to find is related to a leak at the top of the steering column. One other thing I have noticed is that when cranking the front wheels will turn slightly. Not sure what this is an indication of.

Thank you for any advice you can provide.

 

[Tx Jim]

Early model 4230 had telescoping steering. Is your tractors serial number below or above 019558?

 

[crossroadsd]

Thank You for responding.

The serial number is above: 027258R. However, it does have the telescoping steering. We bought this tractor used so I don't know what could have been done to it previously.

 

[Tx Jim]

IIRC seal(parts key 3) is what you need to replace to stop leak. Both old(early) & new(late) styled steering on 4230 could be tilt & telescope.

 

[crossroadsd]

Thank You for your help. I will see about ordering parts and making repairs.