3320 Steering Ram Leak

[CorporateOffRoader]

It seems that after using the tractor for awhile, after I park it in the shed there appears to be maybe 1 or 2 drops of hydraulic fluid that drops off the seal on the steering ram. I wiped it all off and then let it idle for awhile, turned the wheel back and forth several time and while the shaft seems moist, there isn't a leak that you can see.

So, a couple of questions, first, any fluid is probably an indication of an about to fail seal yes? Second, is this ram serviceable by a home mechanic (I just replaced the wheel seals recently, so I am not afraid to try), and third, what is the procedure to disassemble the assembly?

I have searched this forum as well as the web, and have not been able to find anything specific to the 3x20 models.

Thanks.

 

[Tx Jim]

JDparts list a seal kit but I couldn't determine what holds rod guide in housing. Maybe guide unscrews from cylinder. LVA14168 Seal Kit ADD 55.96 USD

 

[greg_g]

Yup. Sounds like you need a seal kit. There's a specialty tool (gland spanner/wrench) to "uncap" the cylinder. But unless you work on hydraulic cylinders regularly, having the cylinder repaired seems more sensible than buying the tool.

//greg//

 

[CorporateOffRoader]

I would assume the tie-rod ends are tapered like a car? Thinking maybe I can just break loose the shaft end and leave the housing end on the tractor?

I see that tool is only about $30 on ebay, probably less than the labor at the JD dealer to have it fixed.

 

[CorporateOffRoader]

I just cleaned off the end of the cylinder and there are no holes in the cap for the gland wrench. The surface, as well as all around the circumference is smooth. Any hints on the method of dis-assembly that doesn't tear up the cap? Maybe a strap-wrench? how tight is the cap on? I have not removed it from the tractor yet, in case I need the tractor.

Thanks

 

[CorporateOffRoader]

Doesn't appear to be welded shut, just no indication on how to turn it....

 

[PILOON]

Just a drop or two?
That shaft is meant to be lubed and the wiper's job is to remove any excess.
I would not consider a drop a problem or excess.
A totally dry shaft could rust while a shaft with a 'film' will not.
Until such time as it becomes messy and needs topping off I would not touch it as you might just make matters worst.
Just MHO.

 

[CorporateOffRoader]

Maybe these are welded..think i will leave it for now

 

[GreatWhitehunter]

Corp is 100% right, the cylinder is welded. You need to take it to a hydraulics shop and have them put it in the lathe and remove the weld. Then replace seal and reweld. A replacement cylinder from Deere is $$$.

Matt