Ford 4000 leaking at the top of steering column running down fuel tank

[banc123]

Ford 4000 1976 ; I noticed a pretty good trail of what sure seems like hydraulic fluid, if not that oil of some kind running down both sides under the hydraulic pump. Figured my fitting was toast again, but when I looked at the trail it goes all the way to the top of the MANUAL steering column area and is running down the back side of the fuel tank, off it and behind the pump then down both sides of the tractor to under it. It’s not gushing but clearly a running drip that starts way up behind the steering column; like under the dash. It’s a manual steering and I’ve never seen it before. It’s a Slow trail. Was going to pull the dash and see where the heck it’s coming from.

Any ideas , strange to be at the top of the steering column, didn’t know any fluid was in there, but maybe it has some lubing it’s spines, but only drips when engine is on.

Thanks !!!

 

[Paystar]

I believe the manual steering does have oil in them. I seem to remember seeing the procedure to check and fill oil in my manuals. But I am not home right now so I can't show you yet.

If you need an answer right away go on Yesterday's tractor forum in the Ford section.

 

[banc123]

Thanks, bet that’s it. Since it’s leaking , assume a seal has gone bad and thinking maybe 00 grease would do it. It sure seemed like as soon as I cranked it , it started dripping, wouldnt think it was under pressure , but steering is where I’ll investigate.