BX2200 Steering problem

kofronj · Apr 25, 2003

I've got a 1 year old BX2200 with 100+ hours on it. Yesterday while doing some yard cleanup, I noticed a steering problem:

While turning the steering wheel "gently", the tires would not move (left or right). So I'd be doing gentle turns, and continuing straight ahead. There was no undue force on the steering wheel, it moved freely and easily.

I could correct by moving the steering wheel more abruptly left or right---then the steering would kick in.

I have the repair manual, and the only thing I can come up with is low hydro fluid or air in the lines. I changed the hydro fluid at 50 hrs (Super-UDT), and the level seems to check fine (at least the to the best of my abilities, given that lousy dipstick). I suppose that there could be air in the system too; but I've put the steering far right or far left (so that the release valve runs for a couple seconds), and that hasn't helped. I don't know if there's any bleeding procedure to follow (the manual does say to 'bleed', but doesn't refer to a page number to discuss how). All the other hydraulic systems (transmission, 3-point) seem to be working fine (I didn't hook up the FEL to check it).

I'll call the dealer this morning, but I was wondering if anyone here had any ideas on what might be going on. Thanks!

Jim

Anonymous Poster · Apr 25, 2003

Sounds like a steering valve problem to me. If the valve is sticking and not opening you get no flow to the hydraulic steering cylinder, thus no turning. Just a thought. Let us know what your dealer says.

Good luck,
Clay

pcmem · Apr 25, 2003

Jim,

I expect you've got a case of the BX steering cylinder blues /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

I had the same problem last fall. My dealer said Kubota got a batch of bad steering cylinders from a supplier. Apparently the supplier left the machined cylinders sit outside prior to assembly where they got wet and slightly rusted inside. Just enough to cause the rod seals to wear and start leaking. Giving the wheel a good turn flows enough fluid to overcome and turn the wheels. It starts out slowly and just gets worse. They replaced the front cylinder on mine and so far so good /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

Your dealer should be able to take care of you,
Michael

pro_tel · Apr 25, 2003

Yes there is a factory recall to replace the cylinder. Interesting that my BX2200 went in for the same problem just yesterday @ 142 hrs. Your dealer should know about the problem.

DaveNH · Apr 25, 2003

Any one have a Service Bulletin Number on this problem?

kofronj · Apr 25, 2003

Ahhh, I just love this place... /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

Talked to one of the mechanics this morning. He indicated the same thing (after checking to make sure that I didn't have the hydraulic lift pegged to the up position), and we'll try to get it scheduled.

I looked at the manual for doing this myself, and I think I'll defer...

Thanks again, everyone!

kofronj · Apr 25, 2003

Update: After talking with the owner and a mechanic, they think I'm more than qualified to do the work (hahaha...). Knowing how busy this time of year is for them, and the fact that it's nearly an hour in transport time (one-way---and they'll have to do it), I'm more than willing to give it a shot.

I'll let you know how it turns out, in the end. But for now, I won't be doing any loader work close to any buildings! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

rmc · Apr 25, 2003

pcmem

Did your Dealer tell you what series of serial numbers the bad steering cylinder where installed on?

If not a problem when did you purchase and what serial number is yours.

Thanks

pro_tel · Apr 26, 2003

The service bulletin # is PSB-2001-048 DATED 10/15/2001. I totally agree that this place has the greatest people in the world. I received my information from CARVER EQP some time back and feel delighted that I can help others.

DaveNH · Apr 26, 2003

Pro_tel

Thanks!
My BX is starting to show the signs and since it's going in for "24 Month Survey Complaints" it's one more problem for the dealer to fix.
My dealer isn't the best and I always get the proverbal run-around. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif
Having the SB#, puts the ball in my court. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif