Lesson 2/Learning Event 2
The troubleshooting section in vehicle TMs contains a list of troubles
(malfunctions) of the vehicle's hydraulic systems, the probable causes of
the troubles, and the corrective repairs that should be made. Always use
this list to aid you in troubleshooting the vehicle.
INSPECTION
Begin the inspection by checking the level and condition of the steering oil
and looking for evidence of leaks.
Inspect the hydraulic pump. Look especially for signs of leaks at the pump
mounting gasket and between the pump and its cover. Tighten the mounting
and cover bolts if necessary.
Examine all hydraulic hoses carefully, especially the highpressure hoses
between the pump and the control valve and between the control valve and
power cylinder. The hoses should be secure in their clamps and not rubbing
against other parts or components. Unless there is evidence of leaks, do
not tighten any of the hose fittings.
Check the control valve for evidence of leaks and for loose valveto
steering jacket mounting bolts.
If no leaks are evident in the system, you can now add oil to the reservoir
if the oil level was low when you checked it. Of course, if you find the
oil dirty or mixed with water, drain the old oil and refill it with clean
oil. While the oil is draining, clean the filter screen. Keep the oil
level in the reservoir at 3/4 full to allow for expansion.
Continue your inspection by checking the steering gear itself.
Look for evidence of lubrication oil leaks around the gear housing gaskets
and seals.
Check the level of the lubrication oil in the steering gear housing by
removing the filler plug in the top of the housing. If necessary, fill the
housing with the proper grade of gear oil (GO). GO is much heavier than the
OE used in the hydraulic system. This makes it easy to decide whether the
hydraulic system or the steering gear is at fault if there is a leak around
the steering gear housing.
Check the steering geartoframe bracket mounting bolts with a wrench. Also
check the steering columntodash panel bracket bolts for tightness.
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