MF180

stoneman · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 12:47 pm Post subject: MF180

Hello, I posted earlier about front wheels not turning,unable to steer, I gave greased the spindles, changed the power steering pump filter and still seems locked up. I even put it in gear to maybe bump the tire loose but no luck. I jacked up the front end and the tires only turn maybe 3 or 4 inches. Any other suggestions? Thanks.

DavidP, South Wales · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 3:12 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

Hi,
If you have greased the kingpins presumably you have been able to turn the steering by pulling and pushing on each front wheel. Can you do this?
You have mentioned about the tyres turning '3 to 4 inches'. Is this the steering or the wheels rotating? There is a main vertical shaft that runs through the front of the axle casting. There is a grease nipple which is frequently overlooked. Make sure that this shaft is free to turn. With the front of the tractor jacked up, can you turn the steering from lock to lock without the engine running. It will be normal to be a little heavier.
Let us know what you find.
DavidP, South Wales

Phil Tibbetts · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 3:49 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

That is just how mine acted. You might check the bearings in the steering column. They are needle bearings with no way to grease them and if left outside in the weather can freeze up. I had that happen to my 1965 180. MF dealer wanted upwards of $100 each for them and
I could not find them anywhere else. (MF special) I am a retired machinist so I bored out the housing and replaced them with bronze bushings and grease fitting, no more problems. Steered smoothly after that.

Erik Ks farmer · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 5:08 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

Phil has the answer, this happened to our 180 about 5 years ago.

doorman · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 5:54 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

had the same problem with the steering shaft on my 180 as well as another 180 and an 1130. The replacement parts my Massey dealer TIPS in Lawrenceburg, Tn. sent me was bronze bushings and said they were the new replacement.

stoneman · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 10:50 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

Thanks I will look at that tomorrow.

stoneman · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 10:53 pm Post subject: Re: MF180

The tires rotate freely but if I force it I can move the tires like steering just a few inches and the steering wheel will not move. This is when it is jacked up.I will look for that grease nipple and lube it.

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