3020 Steering Leak

imabass · Mar 24, 2016

From what I have researched the steering valve is shot and needs rebuilt. It leaks from the steering wheel. Also the steering takes a minute to start working after sitting. If I had to guess, it acts like the hydraulics have bled down and you have to build up pressure for the steering to work properly. Also at first startup the steering to the left is more responsive than steering to the right. After a minute or so of running then it works in both directions the same.

Any suggestions other than the steering valve?

Any suggestion on where to get one rebuilt? I have seen online there are places that sell them for $800-1000. That seems a little high.

Tx Jim · Mar 24, 2016

I'd suggest to send steering valve to Tim in Somerset,Ohio. He will reseal/calibrate & bench test for $350 IIRC. If you choose to do send it to Tim I'll get you his contact info.

imabass · Mar 24, 2016

Yes please send me his contact information

Tx Jim · Mar 25, 2016

One photo shows a way to package(bucket) the steering valve for shipment and other photo shows testing a resealed steering valve on his test stand. Did I state that he's a very good JD technician?
Tim Sweeney 4454 Stage Coach Rd. Somerset Ohio 43783 tim-sweeney at att dot net 7four0-7four3-one08five

imabass · Mar 25, 2016

Got it. Thanks!

imabass · Mar 31, 2016

Well I got that greasy turd out last night. Wish I would have power washed under the dash before I started. Having the propane version, I had to unbolt the hood and remove the seat back to remove the propane valve rods.

I think I am going to rewire the tractor while I have it apart. I have wired many 40+ year old motorcycles so this cant be much different. 50 year old wiring seems like a headache to troubleshoot when problems do come up.

Tx Jim · Mar 31, 2016

Difficulty in R&R of steering valve is why I recommend for Tim to reseal,calibrate & ""test on his stand"". As far as I know Tim is the only technician that I've heard of with a test stand.

Partspring · Apr 2, 2016

Any qualified J D tech should be able to rebuild a 3020 steering unit , try your local J D dealer

Tx Jim · Apr 2, 2016

Partspring said:
Any qualified J D tech should be able to rebuild a 3020 steering unit , try your local J D dealer

Having served as a JD dealer service manager for over 10 yrs during the heyday of 3020/4020's I can truthfully state that not all JD technicians can reset the valves correctly the 1st or 2nd attempt at least not down in Texas. I doubt a large % of current JD technicians have resealed/adjusted a 3020/4020 steering valve.

imabass · May 4, 2016

Sent off to tim and got it back. While it was out I rewired the tractor, full fluid and filter change, and replaced some hydraulic lines. Fired it up tonight and steering is working great so far. Going to put it to work this weekend.