TM 5-3810-300-24&P2
2.
Air in oil circuit. (Bubbles, foaming).
3.
Loose belt, or glazed condition of belt.
4.
Linkage binding or loose (sockets and connections).
5.
Tire conditions, pressure.
NOTE
LOOK FOR THE SIMPLE THINGS FIRST.
For specific diagnosis and symptoms of hard steering, external leakage, and undesired steering actions see the following
pages.
Hard Steering.
Hard steering is a complaint that needs considerable attention because there are numerous symptoms and causes.
Hard steering simply means the driver is not getting hydraulic power assistance that he normally should expect; however,
there may be causes where the driver is expecting easier steering than the system was designed to produce.
Hard steering certainly can be demonstrated. Therefore, make sure whether or not hard steering exists.
It first should be proved to be actually hard steering before doing any troubleshooting for it.
Hard steering with a power steering system means either
1. The hydraulic power section is not creating sufficient steering force.
2. Or, the driver must overcome excessive friction (binding) in the mechanical section to actuate the control valve to
apply the hydraulic power.
If the hydraulic section is not creating sufficient force, it may be because:
1. It does not develop maximum pressure.
2. Too much friction (binding) in the system beyond the point of power application (the valve) must be overcome by the
power force.
3. The front end weight is excessive, the pressure is low, etc.
Briefly, the causes of hard steering may be due to hydraulic or mechanical trouble, or both, and outside factors such as
excessive front end weight, etc.
The more common causes of hard steering are:
1.
Pump belt slipping or broken.
2.
Fluid level low.
3.
Lack of sufficient oil pressure.
4.
Lack of sufficient oil flow.
5.
Air in oil circuit.
6.
Low tire pressure.
7.
Binding friction in the system (somewhere between the steering wheel and front wheels).
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