Lost steering, help/advice needed

[HankC]

Jinma 2430 4wd, son-in-law was using to do some grading work with no problem.
Loaded up a large rock in the bucket only to find that it would not turn to the left (or ever so slightly).
Now it doesn't really turn left or right, steering wheel turns very easily whether the engine is running or not.
Plenty of hydraulic oil, all hydraulic lines are okay.
Any thoughts as to the problem or how to diagnose?

Thanks,
-Hank

 

[HankC]

If its the same steering system as my 254 then the steering wheel should not be able to turn freely when the engine is off. That would indicate to me that you might have sheared the adapter that joins the steering rod (the one the steering wheel is connected to) to the hydraulic steering diverter or something in the diverter is broken. Does your 3 point hitch raise with good force? If so that would suggest you have oil and pressure.

Thanks for the reply. I believe my steering is powered by a separate hydraulic pump and all looks well there.

-Hank

 

[D0TC0M]

I believe my steering is powered by a separate hydraulic pump

Oh really, if that is the case then disregard my comment because mine has only one pump.

 

[cleat]

Jack up the front end a bit and see if you can freely turn the wheels from side to side by hand using one front wheel. If you can then the seal is likely broken inside the steering cylinder.

This can be rebuilt.

Cleat

 

[HankC]

Thanks for the advice Cleat, will give it a try.

-Hank

 

[quicksandfarmer]

It's very common on these tractors for the steering hydraulic cylinder to come unattached. It's threaded at one end and vibrates off. The repair is easy, screw it back on. Locktite is recommended to keep it from happening again.