Loader MF 245 - Loose Steering, Bad Diverter Valve

[clausont]

Hi - new here. We just bought a MF 245. It has a couple issues that we knew about before buying. The main one is the diverter valve (proper term?) does not seem to work. When switched, the front loader hydraulics still don't work, but the 3 point still does. Any thoughts or what more information should I give here?
The second issue is the steering is pretty loose. Doesn't steer straight when trying to road it a few blocks. Looks like I'm drunk when I am driving it (no, I'm not... ). I haven't checked it closely yet to see if it is loose tie rod ends, but it doesn't look like it at first glance. Where else should I look for a steering problem?
Thanks

 

[redman135]

Hi there , I had the same problem with a 240 model. The tie rod end were worn out, it only had about 4000 hrs. They were factory sealed for life type. The replacements are the greasable type.
2 other areas of trouble are the kingpins and the axle pivot bush. No grease over a long time or high (8000 +) hrs will mean a rebush job.
Re the diverter valve , some are 3 position, but only 2 are used. Is yours a 3position or 2 position valve ?

 

[clausont]

Thanks for the reply Redman. All the tie rod ends and kingpins are reasonably tight - little wear on them (though there is a bit). The looseness seems to be in the hydraulics of the steering system.
I will have to say that the diverter valve is a three position. I looked at the shop manual for the tractor and the valve is not shown in the manual. But pulled it off the tractor and checked the valve itself. Pretty simple three position valve. It appears that the "straight up" position should run the three point and straight back should run the front loader.