Here's a couple of DTAC cases I found, sadly most of the things that you really need to check are test a dealer will have to do. On my own I'd check for a leaking or bent cylinder, pinched hoses or bent tubes. You didn't state if 2 or 4wd, but you might also raise the front, disconnect the tie rods and see how hard it is to pivot the tires left or right. It could be a bad bearing in the spindle housing. These are all things you can look at w/o dealer labor, if the steering column
motor or the pump are bad only the dealer test will show for sure. Lets hope its cheap and you find it !
Hard steering troubleshooting:
1. If the tractor is equipped with a front implement, make sure that the rear of the tractor is properly ballasted. Too much force on the front axle can make the steering hard to turn normally. Click here to see the Ballast requirements for a Compact Utility Tractor
If the tractor is properly ballasted or does not have a front implement:
2. Make sure that the hydraulic system is not being aerated by a loose or damaged connection on the suction side of the hydraulic pumps.
Check all the rubber connections and clamps on the suction side of the hydraulic system for being loose or damaged. Most of the time a loose connection will not externally leak. Check the o-ring under the elbow bolted to the steering pump for damage. Normally the lines coming out of the pressure side of the hydraulic pumps will usually vibrate more than normal if this is happening.
If the hydraulic system is not aerating:
3. Perform the “Steering System Test” as shown in the Technical Manual using the constant torque of 60 inch lbs to the steering wheel retaining nut.
4. Test the flow coming from the steering charge pump with a 1500 psi restriction. The flow should be around 4.5 to 5gpm. If the flow is below 4gpm check the suction screen and filter for a restriction. If the filters are clean and clear replace the steering charge pump.
If flow is to spec:
5. Perform the “Steering Pressure Test” as shown in the Technical Manual.
Steering Pressure (±10%) . . . . . . . 10340 kPa (1500 psi)
here's another.....
Complaint or Symptom: Power steering does not work, steers hard, or is slow
Solution: Below is a guide to follow for determining the cause of the problem:
Air in the hydraulic system - Bleed system and check for leaks
Internal leakage in the system - Components may not be adjusted properly. Parts may be worn or broken. Check for cause of wear.
Worn or damaged bearings - Check and replace bearings in steering components.
Insufficient pressure - Check pump and relief valves. Contamination could cause valves to leak or the pump to wear.
4700, 4200, 4600, 4400, 4300, 4500
