6500 4wd steering issue - drifting right

[farmbacker]

I just picked up an old (2005) 6500 4wd, and when I got it home I realized that the steering is pretty messed up. One of these days I'll learn to check EVERYTHING before buying a used machine...

When going down the road, and holding the wheel steady, the tractor constantly turns to the right. In other words, the steering cylinder constantly wants to extend. In order to drive straight, I need to continuously turn the wheel to the left.

I've ordered the owner's manual and service manual, but in the meantime I'd appreciate some guidance. Could this be a leaking steering cylinder? Or is it more likely that the actual steering valve is bad? Hoping it's the cylinder, as the HSU box seems a bit more challenging to get at.

Thanks!

 

[oldpilgrim]

that's pretty much common among tractors. the crown of the road will make it go that way. The 'power' steering is not like a car steering as the steering wheel is not connected to the from end with gearing and a power assist. Instead the steering is totally hydraulic, with only the cylinder moving the front wheels from side to side, no direct gear connection. This method requires constant steering wheel adjustments as you drive down a road, and is not noticeable off road.

When I drive my purchased new 3016 about a half mile down the road, I have counted me having to completely turn the wheel , a little bit at a time, about two full revolutions over that distance..

It's a little off putting at first, but you'll learn to adjust. There is nothing wrong with your machine.

 

[SPYDERLK]

All hydrostatic steering tractors do it but as far as I know Mahindra is the worst. ... On sidehill I must constantly turn the wheel on the 7520 to maintain straight. Youll get used to it, but I doubt ever be pleased. Mahindra has really screwed up here.

 

[AchingBack]

I don't have this issue on my 2005, Mahindra 2615. I made a three mile round trip with it to have my thumb welded to the backhoe, and he ran straight as an arrow all the way.

 

[oldpilgrim]

All hydrostatic steering tractors do it but as far as I know Mahindra is the worst. ... On sidehill I must constantly turn the wheel on the 7520 to maintain straight. Youll get used to it, but I doubt ever be pleased. Mahindra has really screwed up here.

Kioti is the same, maybe worse. I've heard kubota is too.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Kioti is the same. I've heard kubota is too.

I have three kubotas with hydrostatic steering. The steering is rock solid in comparison to the Mahindra.

 

[oldpilgrim]

No experience with kubota, only Mahindra and Kioti but I thought I read comments about it here.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Yeah. I have too. The difference is a matter of degree. I only notice it on the kubots when I look for it.

 

[seaneastok]

I have no experience with the machines listed above in the previous post's. But I will say I have had NO steering problems on my 4530..Mine stay's straight as an arrow up and down hill, side hide, off camber etc..during operation..Only thing I noticed first off ,was after shutdown and restart the steering wheel would be in a slightly different position.

Rgds..
Sean

 

[SPYDERLK]

They changed the steering on the 7520 a year or so after my '06 model, so maybe theyre all better now.