NH T1510 Steering Problem

[PearlWhiteGT]

Having some issues with the steering on my New Holland T1510 and not sure where to start on troubleshooting it. At times while the engine is running I can turn the steering wheel but the tires don’t turn and other times they turn as normal. This is on a non HST model. Tractor rarely gets used and has less than 50 hours on it. Any of you know what could possibly be the issue or what I should check first?

Co worker told me he was having issues with one of his tractors, the bucket wouldn't go up/down and was getting ready to order a new pump for it but decided to replace the hydraulic fluid filter first and it fixed the issue. Is it possible that this could fix my issue or likely something else? Any advice and help would be much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Halftrack]

I am assuming that since new, the tranny fluid has not been replaced. That's 8 years of moisture and associated gunk buildup in the tranny. Warm it up good and drain the tranny and replace the filter (there may be 2). Hopefully the engine oil has been changed during this time. If not, do it and the filter and cross your fingers.

Cut your filters open and I think you will see the problem(s).

 

[PearlWhiteGT]

Thanks, I'll definitely change out the fluid. I pulled the dip stick and the fluid that is in there still looks new but guess from years of being in there it will still accumulate moisture and gunk huh. I have the non HST so only one filter #4.

 

[PearlWhiteGT]

If there was moisture in the system wouldn't the fluid look a little cloudy or milky when pulling the dip stick?

 

[Harry in Ky]

If the oil quality and/or moisture is affecting your steering, it would also affect the rest of the hydraulics. Any problems there? I would revisit the symptoms before wasting all that fluid.

 

[Harry in Ky]

I believe you're wrong with that assumption. The T1510 is pretty much the same tractor, but it has no steering reservoir. It joins the steering pump suction line to that of the hydraulic pump.

 

[Halftrack]

From the parts diagrams and videos available for the T1510, I am not seeing a separate reservoir for the power steering. There are 2 hydraulic pumps on the right front lower side of the engine. The rear pump is fed with steel lines and is the main pump and the front pump is for the steering. There may be a rubber hose supplying the steering pump and it may collapse, restricting flow.

As far as changing the fluid, you have a few options. #1 You can change the filter only (you have to be fast) have the other filter ready and swap them out. #2 You can drain the fluid, examine it and reuse it, but filter it when dumping it back in. Of course, replace the filter during the drain. Examine the fluid for contaminates and water. Water will be difficult as it will be on the bottom of what ever container you use. There are filters out there that will separate the water (MR FUNNEL). If you plan on reusing the fluid and you are concerned about water contamination, siphon off the fluid from the top of the container into a glass or clear plastic bottle to see if water separates out.

 

[PearlWhiteGT]

I just purchased some new fluid and a new filter and plan on finally changing it out to see if it helps at all. Been pretty busy and haven't had a chance to mess around with the tractor. I guess if it doesn't help then at least I know it has fresh fluid and a filter. I'd like to take it out next weekend and cut with it but guess will have to see if this helps or not.

Do I need to engage the PTO when trying to get the fluid warm before draining? Guess I'm trying to figure out how to get the fluid warmed up before draining.

 

[Halftrack]

Yes,run the pto(s) and put the gear selector in neutral and depress the pedal and lock the cruise control to warm up the fluid, then drain and change.

 

[PearlWhiteGT]

Was looking at some diagrams on messicks site. Can anyone confirm if part #17 on the diagram has a fill cap to check for fluid? I wasn't aware of it till I looked online. Going to check the tractor later today when I get home. I'm wondering if that can be low for some reason.