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mlh2013 · 08-19-2022, 11:12 AM

We are on a trip out to the midwest and I pulled off to get fuel upon pulling out of the parking lot my steering was hard to turn . I thought maybe just my imagination. We got to our campground and I went to turn in to site and could barley turn the wheel I increase RPM a bit and it gets better but when it's at idle problem comes back. Going down the road all is fine, I checked for leaks and found none, my hydraulic reservoir is up to full mark. I did have the steering gearbox changed about 6 months and about 8000 miles ago but it has worked flawlessly. I have a side radiator and hydraulic pump. Any ideas on what might be my problem.

Bruce Anthon · 08-19-2022, 11:27 AM

There are flow control valves on a Shepard steering box that can become problematic. I would have a qualified shop check it for you before it gets worse. They would need to use pressure gauges to narrow it down. With a replacement box it may still be under warranty. Or it may be the pump.

mlh2013 · 08-19-2022, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bruce Anthon

There are flow control valves on a Shepard steering box that can become problematic. I would have a qualified shop check it for you before it gets worse. They would need to use pressure gauges to narrow it down. With a replacement box it may still be under warranty. Or it may be the pump.

I think the box has one year warranty on it. I'm guessing it will be safe to drive we are on our way home have about 900 miles to go. Thanks

Ray,IN · 08-19-2022, 03:13 PM

There is 1 or 2 filters in the hydraulic oil system, how long since they have been replaced?

mlh2013 · 08-19-2022, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN

There is 1 or 2 filters in the hydraulic oil system, how long since they have been replaced?

They were replaced in April when the gearbox was changed.

Argosy · 08-20-2022, 05:12 AM

If the steering gear is 4 months old and having problems it needs to go back to the installer.

153stars · 08-20-2022, 02:38 PM

I believe there is a priority/proportioning valve associated with fans and PS just so you know. I'm not saying it's the problem.

mlh2013 · 08-21-2022, 05:03 PM

We were able to make it back home today. The steering is fine as long as not at idle then only hard turning to left. I spoke with the shop that installed the new gearbox and he said bring it in and they will put it on gauges and check pressure. So will take it in and see what the problem is soon. I will post the findings. Thanks!

doc · 08-21-2022, 06:14 PM

low steering fluid in the reservoir?

mlh2013 · 08-22-2022, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doc

low steering fluid in the reservoir?

It's full and filters were changed when new gearbox was installed.

mlh2013 · 10-18-2022, 07:01 PM

Update: I finally got my hard steering problem fixed. I took it to FourStar Freightliner for troubleshooting. The problem with the steering box was contamination and improper adjusting from previous installer. So I had another steering box and hydraulic pump installed and the complete system flushed and replaced with new fluid and filters. FYI Fourstar Freightliner allowed me to furnish the parts, HUGH savings.