Adding Power Steering to Ford 1700 4wd

[BWBrown]

What I know about hydraulics I have learned by the seat of my pants, trial-n-error, and what I have read here.

Proposal: To add power steering to my Ford 1700. I just spent over 600.00 on parts to rebuild the standard steering. Loads on the FEL are not kind to it. This is the secong go-round replacing worm shaft and steering sector.

OEM power steering, new or used, are not available. I suggest the total replacement of the manual steering wheel, column, steering box/sector shaft, pitman arm and steering rod.

I have looked at this steering valve:
Surplus Center Item Detail
It is a load reaction valve, to be connected to a double acting hydraulic cylinder to replace the existing rod between the pitman arm and the ball end connection on the front left wheel.
Add a steering shaft and wheel, a couple hoses, plumb it from a power beyond port or a priority valve.

Except for choosing the exact sizes to fit and fabbing mounting brackets, it looks easy. What am I missing?

Let the education begin. Thanks in advance.
Bob

 

[jimmer2880]

I have been working with Rick from Tractor power steering conversion kit and parts store. He is very knowledgeable and specializes in adding power steering to older tractors. I couldn't ask for better support.

See my project http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/customization/111059-power-steering-fel-yanmar-f16.html#post1274268

 

[Soundguy]

Also.. you may want to look at jackson power steering. he refits lots of older fords.. Might have some parts in stock and you can do some custom fabwork with them..

Soundguy

 

[sandman2234]

Are there any used lawnmower shops around there that might have some parts machines for commercial mowers? I think that the one I have out back might make a good donor for a small tractor, as the mower weighs over 2,000 pounds itself. Seems like there ought to be a way to purchase a used system and modify it to fit, rather than spending that much money trying to match up parts and hope they will work together. If you can find a retrofit that somebody made for another tractor, that would probably be the easiest way, like Jimmer and Soundguy mentioned.
David from jax

 

[BWBrown]

Actually, Jimmer, it was your project that got me thinking in this direction again. Thanks, guys, for the leads. This kind of exchange of ideas is what makes this hobby (obscession ?) so much fun.
I would consider purchasing some pulled parts from "retired" equipment if they were to be made available.
I'll be getting into this a bit more agressively after the holidays. In the meantime, I'll welcome any more ideas offered.
Bob

 

[jimmer2880]

Glad my project helped spread the disease, I mean, idea.

 

[robbieo11]

I have had great luck with this on my bota actualy bought it from him to 10.00 shipping great deal

DANFOSS OSPM 40 ON MINI Steering Unit Boat Marine NEW - (eBay item 300043551799 end time Dec-23-07 14:15:29 PST)

 

[BWBrown]

Rob,
THANKS for the link - I'm on it! Looks like my project is now officialy back on the front burner.
Bob

 

[jimmer2880]

That is essentially the same unit I just bought (mine is a 50 though, slightly bigger output).

All you need now, is a double-acting cylinder. You should be able to pick one of those up cheap on ebay.

 

[robbieo11]

beleive it or not i have an air clinder on mine i am using as a double act

but here look at this yes i am bidding on it who cares it john deere paint orange blue red hay jd did not build it anyway it was bought by them
John Deere Riding Mower Power Steering Cylinder NR NIB - (eBay item 140184573772 end time Dec-01-07 12:04:18 PST)

i love ebay
the guy with steering unit is a square deal guy he lives in n.c i live in buffalo ny i am not trying to promot auctions on the site sorry tbn