I have a 2755 open station with hydrostatic steering. I had to move it about 20 miles last summer; as I drove, I noticed the location of the spinner knob moved in relation to the wheels being pointed straight. (i.e., the knob wasn't always at 8 o'clock when the wheels were straight; it slowly changed places). The further I went, I noticed I needed to pump the brakes to get good response. When I arrived at the location, the tractor lost steering function until it sat for a little while (I was able to brake-steer the tractor). The steering has always had a "catch" before the wheels start turning and the wheels will frequently slowly turn one way or the other without steering input.
At this point, my best guess is the steering valve under the dash is worn and needs to be replaced. To me, that explains the change in relative position of the steering wheel and the "catch" in the steering, as well as the front wheels turning without steering wheel input. An internal leak would cause the hydraulic oil to get hot and lead to the temporary loss of steering under summer operating conditions and the degraded brake function.
Is there something else I'm overlooking or need to think about? Are the aftermarket steering valves acceptable?
At this point, my best guess is the steering valve under the dash is worn and needs to be replaced. To me, that explains the change in relative position of the steering wheel and the "catch" in the steering, as well as the front wheels turning without steering wheel input. An internal leak would cause the hydraulic oil to get hot and lead to the temporary loss of steering under summer operating conditions and the degraded brake function.
Is there something else I'm overlooking or need to think about? Are the aftermarket steering valves acceptable?