Deutz 4006 steering

[steve-in-ga]

Was driving my d4006 and the steering started getting real difficult to turn. The steering is completely manual. I noticed there is a fill plug on the top of the steering box housing. Anyone know what type of fluid this takes and how much? I would also appreciate any help anyone has in fixing this issue.

 

[Janicholson]

If it is leaking out the bottom, I would put Corn Head grease in the fill plug as it is stiff enough to not just drain out, but liquid enough to work for lube. Rapid onset stiffness might likely be a failed thrust bearing in one of the spindle uprights. Lift the axle one side at a time and assess the steering when one side is up, compared to the other. Jim

 

[steve-in-ga]

Lifted the axle and the issue persisted so I removed the steering box and found the upper worm gear bearing in the bottom of the housing and the bottom bearing starting to fall apart also. Thanks for your help. I'll look into the corn head greese when I put it back together.