3600 steering box

[Snowturtle]

I have had my '78 3600 for a couple years now and am finally making progress on all of the leaks and little issues. My current one is the power steering box. It squirts fluid out of a pressure relief valve. The section of the column that contains that valve looks to have been replaced already. What is my issue? Can I replace a different component? Or should I just replace the whole column and not dig too deep? I'd like to save money and fix it but there's a balance there regarding my time and frustration as well. Thanks!

 

[Recoil]

Has this always happened or just started? I *believe* there is a check ball in there.

 

[Snowturtle]

It's been happening since I bought it but I focused on other issues first. There is a spring and a ball in there and the pin does move up and down. I have believed it's leaking because it's working correctly and relieving pressure, but maybe I should try replacing it once just in case?

 

[Ultradog MN]

The pressure relief in that PS system is in the pump, not the column.
Your arrow is pointing to the lower steering box breather and it is not the culprit.
Your problem is the seal - #24 in the photo.
It is leaking and oil is being pushed down where it doesn't belong.
Not a real simple job to replace. The steering wheel, cowel around the fuel tank, throttle linkage and upper half of the column have to removed to get at it.
I have been through those steering columns a number of times and could talk you through it. If you want, send me a PM with your phone # and good time to call and I'd be willing to help.
Jerry

 

[Snowturtle]

Thanks! I appreciate that! I'm busy this morning but will check in later
Brad

 

[Sean in PA]

Ultradog is correct, the lower seal for the control valve is leaking and power steering fluid is getting into the gearbox below the control valve. The gearbox is normally filled with gear oil or NIGL Grade 0 grease. Besides replacing the seal, you should drain the gearbox and refill with the correct gear oil or grease. Running it with power steering fluid in there for an extended time will cause the sector gears to not be lubricated properly and to wear prematurely.

 

[Snowturtle]

Ugh! I checked that yesterday and was wondering why it was so far above the full line! Damn, sounds like I better quit using it and fix asap.