Massey Ferguson 240 steering wheel spins without moving the tires

Question

I have a problem with the power steering in my Massey Ferguson 240 tractor, it was really hard to move the steering for the last couple of weeks so I stopped using the tractor to avoid causing any serious damage, today I tried to troubleshoot the problem I cleaned the steering pump cover and the wheel started moving freely, I can't tell if the problem is in the steering box or the power steering pump, what are your suggestions? where should I begin? I checked the hydraulic oil and it was on max and the oil seemed clean. Video of the problem

HandyHowie · Answer

I am presuming that a tractor has similar steering components as my Land Rover.  If so the possible faults are -

Universal joint broken that connects steering column to steering box.
Splines stripped on steering box input shaft.
Splines stripped on steering box output shaft.
Steering box internals worn.
Drag link disconnected from steering box output arm.
Drag link disconnected from wheel hub carrier.

After finding out that the steering is hydraulically driven, then some of my suggestions will not be correct for your tractor.  I will leave the answer here in case it is useful for others.

QuakeCore · Answer

I have refilled the steering pump oil reservoir with about 0.5 liter of hydraulic fluid, and the steering wheel moves smoothly and without any problem.
I really thought that the power steering was operating on the gears/hydraulic oil just like the main hydraulic pump that moves the hydraulic arms.

Massey Ferguson 240 steering wheel spins without moving the tires

2 Answers

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question