Question re: Steering Cylinder Seals

pajoube · Feb 20, 2006

Thanks for the infromation, very interesting. If the weather warms up I will try the steering wheel test as I think I may have some slippage as the spinner knob will change a little.
PJ

SnowRidge · Feb 20, 2006

<font color="blue"> For example, if the spinner knob is normally at 3 o’clock and you find that it progressively moves around the dial as you mow, this could indicate some “blow by” in the steer circuit. </font>

But it could also be normal. All hydrostatic steering setups have some degree of steering wheel creep, even when they are brand new, since there is no direct mechanical connection between the road wheels and the steering wheel. Folks who are used to power steering on cars and trucks, which do have a direct mechanical connection, sometimes become concerned when they first encounter this phenomenon.

Just thought I would mention it before someone became concerned because his machine has a little steering wheel creep. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

MossRoad · Feb 20, 2006

I've noticed that my spinner knob isn't always in the same place when going forward. I have no concerns. The thing still responds like it was new.

marrt · Feb 20, 2006

Agreed...that's why I said "could". /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif But if it moves around the dial like I suggested, particularly if it does this each time you use the tractor, then I would bet it's "likely" you have some blow by. In ether case, it’s not really a big deal if it doesn't bother you. And as you note, some blow by is probably normal. If it gets bad, it will be dangerous. But by then, there’d be no doubt that something was wrong anyway. My experience is that it gets progressively worse so there’s plenty of time to take action.

DHS · Feb 20, 2006

marrt,

My steering cylinders are in the beginning stage of sluggishness. I believe this summer or fall I will replace my seals. Did you purchase your seals from Power-Trac? Since they have a $50 minimum order I might have to find another source.

Thank-you,

Dale

marrt · Feb 20, 2006

Yes, I purchased from PT. In fact, PT makes these cylinders if you can believe it. I don't see how this could be economical but I guess it works for them. The hard part is getting the cap off. It screws off but mine were on really tight.

SnowRidge · Feb 20, 2006

<font color="blue"> And as you note, some blow by is probably normal. </font>

It's my hunch that the normal creep comes from bleed by in the steering valve, not the cylinders -- but it's no more than a hunch.

J_J · Feb 20, 2006

I am a little curious why you think the cylinders are leaking. It could be the steering valve or a priority valve in the steering valve, which lets fluid go to the lift arms if you are not steering. With the engine off, can you make the PT move left or right. At the end of steering, does the steering wheel keep on turning, very slowly?

marrt · Feb 21, 2006

The main reason I think it’s the seals is because that’s what it was before with the same behavior and that’s what I’m hoping it is this time (because the steering valve is much more expensive). I haven’t tried to move the steering with the tractor off. Before, Terry told me this put a lot a strain on the steering valve and not to try this test more than once or twice. I haven’t tried the end of steering test ether. When it warms up, maybe I should try it.