444 massey steering problem

[jeff janke]

my brother is restoring a 444 massey harris narrow front tractor .the steering shaft that goes into the pedistol is worn he put new a new seal in there but the seal leaks also there is some play making the front wheels wobble the power steerig is also hooked up to the rear hydraulics may this have to much presure causing it to leak by the seal does any one know if the steering shaft can be machined. or who does that.
 

[J. Everett]

Some of the 444 tractors had aftermarket power steering units that did run off of the main hydralics. On my 444 the main center support brg. and bushings were toast, causeing the problem as you discribe.
J. Everett
 

[Mike in Mn.]

I am no expert, but I have worked on a few of these. First of all, are you talking about a factory power steering narrow front?? If so, there should be a flow divider or priority valve in the system to power the unit. It will take a portion of the hydraulic flow and divert it to the power steering system, it also has it's own relief valve right in the unit. The steering sector should be adjustable to take out the slack and wobble in the front wheels, there should be an adjustment to take the play out of the input shaft, the worn spot on the shaft can be repaired with a speedy sleeve, available where you buy bearings and seals. If this unit is being run directly off the tractor hydraulics without a flow divider, I would say there is too much pressure and flow going to it. You should get a manual to see how it can be adjusted, good luck on our project.
 

[jeff janke]

mike is it possible that my brother can have your phone number so idont have to be the in between person he doesnt have internet he lives near frazee mn thank you
 

[Mike in Mn.]

Sure 763-479-2928 If no answer, leave a message and I will call back.