sticky steering

[kidney]

I have a 04 kama ts354c tractor. The steering works well but has a sticky resistence when first turning to one side. It is not as smooth as it was. I have not looked into this yet other then checking the fluid level but if you have any ideas please let me know. It has never been able to steer if the engine is not running. Is this normal? I have no leaks or fluid loss. The filter and fluid was replaced early last year and it was fine at that time. Thanks for your input. kidney

 

[Rich Waugh]

Check to see if your drag link is bent - the Chinese seem to use pretty soft steel for those. I've had to straighten mine a couple times on my Jinma 304 and finally slipped a piece of high carbon steel inside it - end of problem.

 

[greg_g]

I used to own a 2006 TSC354C. The pump on the left front of the engine is the power steering pump. Just like a car, it doesn't work until the engine is running. Sticking in one direction sounds like a linkage problem. The steering cylinder is mounted under the radiator, and pushes both left and right. Both sides have cup and ball linkages connecting them to the right and left front drive assemblies. I'm guessing at least one side is loose.

Also a front drive wheel that has limited motion for whatever reason can provide feedback force to the cylinder that would produce the same symptoms. If the steering linkage is firmly secured on both sides, put something behind the rear wheels. Jack up the front end so that both tires are off the ground, start the engine. Have someone rotate the steering wheel in both directions while you try to locate the source of the resistance.

//greg//

 

[kidney]

Well I need to check my linkage more often. The toe was off and toed out. After tightening and adjusting the toe in all is well again in tractor land. I have moved a lot of snow this past winter. It was a lot of steering movement when blowing snow. I am less likely to check out everything when it is cold. Thank you for your replies and help.
kidney