M7040 STEERING PROBLEM

[Muleskinner]

Today while working on a job site I lost my power steering for a few seconds. It happened four times in about an hour. It felt like it does when the power steering goes out on a vehicle with power steering. The steering would get real hard to turn right or left. Then the problem would go away by itself. My dealer is researching the problem and is supposed to call me. Has anyone had this problem with their M series tractor? The tractor only has three hundred hours on it. I just changed the hydraulic fluid, including filters, about one hundred hours ago. I know the power steering is hydrostatic and works off of the hydraulic system. It does not have a seperate pump.

 

[ozzie tractor]

did the hydraulics go at the same time, for a start i would check the transmission oil level, if thats ok throw a set of hydraulic filters on it and check the suction strainer ( you will need a clean oil catch drum or bucket because you have to drop the oil) if they are ok take it to the dealer and jump up and down a lot. if its not a oil supply problem and its still under warranty get them to fix it, thats what warranty is for after all.

 

[Muleskinner]

This happened when I was trying to get turned around in a tight area. It happened only during a "lock to lock" turn. I think it may be a sticking relief valve or something like that. I just changed the hydro oil and filters 100 hours ago. I do not think dirt or foriegn material is the problem. And no, I did not loose my hydraulics at the same time. At least I don't think so, as my gannon was up, as was my FEL.

 

[kevinj]

Today while working on a job site I lost my power steering for a few seconds. It happened four times in about an hour. It felt like it does when the power steering goes out on a vehicle with power steering. The steering would get real hard to turn right or left. Then the problem would go away by itself. My dealer is researching the problem and is supposed to call me. Has anyone had this problem with their M series tractor? The tractor only has three hundred hours on it. I just changed the hydraulic fluid, including filters, about one hundred hours ago. I know the power steering is hydrostatic and works off of the hydraulic system. It does not have a seperate pump.

My L model has a separate power steering pump on the engine but uses oil from the main hydraulics. I had a pin hole in the suction hose near the pump and gave your exact symtons.