204 steering

[Scott Eakers]

I have a 204 industrial that I cannot get the steering wheel to move, it has been sitting for about 3 years, any suggestions where to start? It has a hydraulic cylinder on each wheel if that helps.

 

[Larry in WNY]

Verify the power steering pump has fluid in it. Jack the front end up and see if the wheels will turn without running the tractor. If they do, turn the wheels all the way in each direction then remove the power steering pump plug to let air escape. Run the tractor and turn the wheels all the way in each direction a couple times then shut down. Pull the plug again to let air escape and add fluid if necessary. I prefer to do this with the tractor off because you can hear the air leaking from the plug easier by keeping it loose. I had this problem after changing a steering cylinder. Continue working the air out until it steers the same in each direction.

If this doesn't help maybe the cylinders are hooked up wrong or something else is the problem.

Larry

 

[MKinOntario]

Does the wheel not move at all as in it's frozen? Is it hydrostatic or mechanical with power assist? If there is no mechanical connection, from the wheels to steering wheel through a gearbox of sorts and linkage then it's hydrostatic. Either way I doubt your problem is with the hydraulic side. More likely something mechanical is frozen from sitting, such as steering shaft bearing. If so try soaking with lubricant. MK

 

[Inno]

I believe the 204 is mechanical with power assist.
If the wheel is completely frozen and will not budge at all I would look at the mechanical linkage between the wheel and the power steering valve and maybe even as far as in the steering "box" where you have recirculating balls that may have jammed up.
Even if the wheels don't move you should still have a few inches of play in the steering when you turn the wheel from left to right. If it's completely solid, it's in the steering shaft/linkage for sure.