4500 ford tractor steering problems

larry zielkowski · Sep 11, 2020

Got over a lot of issues with my 4500 ford loader tractor but my latest problem is after finding my hydraulic fluid all gummed up I drained , cleaned , put a new filter and fluid . Loader and transmission started working right away but the power steering doesn’t work before the tractor broke down and sat in the field the steering worked intermittently now it is rock solid wheels take a tremendous amount to turn almost feel like I might break something however if I lift the front wheels off of the ground with the loader they turn easy . Not sure where to start thought about disconnecting the hydraulic cylinder linkage to see if I can turn easier . Anyway looking for some help if anyone knows this system thanks Larry

Matt in Oz · Sep 12, 2020

Hi Larry Had a mechanic work on mine when I had it. The steering was just as you describe. There are a whole lot of linkages and pins and things that wear that will probably need to be replaced. Found mine would work intermittently turning one way and nothing the other as the actuating system wasn't working. Either get someone experienced with Fords to do it or get the manuals and think you might have to remove the nose and radiator. Sorry to be the bearer of not the news you probably wanted. Others will be along who have way more knowledge than I do.

Sean in PA · Sep 12, 2020

As Matt said, it probably has worn parts in the cylinder mounts and/or control linkage. When it gets in that state it can work against you more than it works with you. Disconnecting one end of the cylinder will reduce it to manual steering, but at least it won't be fighting against you. Everything that's likely worn and might need replacing is under the nose of the tractor so it won't be a fun job. Simply removing the pin from one end of the cylinder can be a tough job in itself.

pomester · Sep 12, 2020

The steering mechanism has its own pump under the generator that shares the hydraulic fluid in the loader reservoir. Before tearing into the cylinder and the control mechanisms surrounding it I would make sure the pump is getting oil and working properly.

larry zielkowski · Sep 12, 2020

Thanks for all of the replies really appreciate them still hoping that I might be able to find a simple solution . Anyone know how to tell if the pump is pumping ? I was going to crack open one of the lines To check for fluid , muck or air . But the steering does have a lot of play in it

UPFord · Sep 12, 2020

When you have the front wheels off the ground, grab front wheels at top and bottom and try to move to see how much play is in the king pins and spindle bushings. I had a 4500 with loose kingpins and bushings. They would tilt and bind with weight on the axle, but turn freely with weight off the axle. There is a thrust bearing on the upper end of the kingpin, if it's trashed, the steering will definitely bind under load.

4500 ford tractor steering problems

larry zielkowski

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Matt in Oz

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Sean in PA

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pomester

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larry zielkowski

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UPFord

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