Steering Cylinder Rod Guide Replacement on JD 3203; Difficult?

[Emperor]

I have a JD 3203 Compact and was wondering why my steering was drifting after cutting grass. Noticed hydraulic fluid was spewing from the Power Steering Cylinder "Rod Guide" seal. Looks like a stick or something may have stabbed/got jammed between rod and rod guide and damaged the seal.

Noticed that the Rod Guide on my model, matches several other models. Also noticed the part alone is very expensive (almost $300). As ridiculous as that is, the tractor is useless while that is broken.

1. This looks like a fairly simple task. Is it?
2. If so, what is the basic procedure for disassembly and replacement of that part?
3. Should I consider an issue with the piston as well? It's expensive too!

Thanks!

 

[joecdeere]

You need the seal kit, not the rod guide
Kit -LVA14168

 

[Emperor]

Thanks Joe.

I suppose I will remove the existing seal and see the extent of the damage. Where did you get that part number and / or see a diagram that offered a "kit" that I assume will be far less expensive, instead of the $300 parts?

 

[joecdeere]

last item on the list on the cylinder page

 

[Emperor]

Thanks again!

 

[Emperor]

John Deere 3203
Replacing Seals

Piston on rod is on there pretty snugly. I am trying to remove it.

Can someone tell me if the piston is removed from the rod by unscrewing it, or does it need to be pulled or tapped free?

Also, if it is removed by unscrewing, how do put enough force on it in the vise grips to avoid damaging the piston?

Thanks.

 

[mrmikey]

Maybe Loctited on? If so, you'll need heat to loosen the Loctite. As for holding the rod, can you double nut the other end?...............Mike

 

[jthibodeau89]

Need either copper, aluminum, or UHMW v-block covers for your vice jaws to clamp the rod without marring it. It looks like the piston is 2 pieces jam nutted together on the end of the rod. May need to make a couple clamp wrenches from aluminum bar stock. Think barrel wrench if you are familiar with gunsmithing.

 

[Emperor]

Need either copper, aluminum, or UHMW v-block covers for your vice jaws to clamp the rod without marring it. It looks like the piston is 2 pieces jam nutted together on the end of the rod. May need to make a couple clamp wrenches from aluminum bar stock. Think barrel wrench if you are familiar with gunsmithing. View attachment 569561

Piston was just sitting on the tapered end of rod. Got snug from the pressure. I used a bearing pull to break it free. Worked perfectly.

 

[jthibodeau89]

Glad you got it free.

 

[Emperor]

Glad you got it free.

If anyone has a similar issue, this John Deere Seal Kit includes illustrated instructions. Very helpful. Thanks again to Joecdeere! I was definitely heading in the wrong direction before his suggestion. My suggestion to those of you with similar DIY questions, get a copy of a technical manual for your particular make and model tractor. I ordered a CD for mine off of eBay for $50. Bargain! John Deere wants blood and my first born?!?

I have been forced to DIY on all my tractor issues. There is no reputable or competent John Deere service center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For the life of me, I cannot understand why everything about fixing a tractor is so damned secretive. Can't find any illustrative instructions online. Can't find any technical manuals. Can't find prices for parts on JD website. There are only 2 pictures of this particular Power Steering Cylinder online?!? :confused3:

Ridiculous!

This site and sites relative to learning, understanding, and fixing things; is the only types of social media platforms that serve mankind!

Thanks for everyone's help!