Leaking Front Pedestal

Jerry Grant · May 31, 2015

When I load my 46 ZTU on my trailer, the front pedestal always leaks oil down through the bottom. The oil around the steering gears just sets in a reservoir so it must run over the lip when going up the trailer ramps. The only seal at the bottom at the bearing is just a felt seal. Does anyone else have this problem? What can I do about it?

alsparl · May 31, 2015

I was told by an "old timer" to just get rid of the gear lube in the pedestal and replace it with corn head grease. It is much thicker but gives the same lubricating capabilities. Plus it doesn't leak down through the worn out felt seal. I haven't tried it yet on my '40 ZTU yet but when its gets driven more, I will be doing so. Hope this helps. Aaron

Alan K · Jun 1, 2015

Ive always had that problem on my ZAU just from doing field work with it. It gets to be a mess but it was designed to work that way. The cornhead grease sounds like a good idea to try.

Jerry Grant · Jun 1, 2015

Thanks for the good advise guys.

Alan K · Jun 1, 2015

Using 140w gear oil helps but does make for a stickier mess as well.

Heath72 · Jun 3, 2015

I have also removed the lower bearing/seal retainer, then replaced the old felt with a precision seal. I just gave the O.D. and shaft size to the guy at the machine shop and had one the next day. I also use the corn head grease. It's a great solution for those old steering gear boxes.

Leaking Front Pedestal

Jerry Grant

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alsparl

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Alan K

Well-known Member

Jerry Grant

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Alan K

Well-known Member

Heath72

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