D350E and D400E Articulated Trucks Steering, Suspension, and Body Hoist Hydraulic Systems Caterpillar

Test the steering for binding

If the steering wheel is hard to turn, perform the following test:

1. Stop the engine and install the steering frame locks.

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Illustration 1	g00656998
The steering metering pump is located at the end of the steering column under the cab. (1) Typical bolt for the mounting plate for the steering metering pump (2) Knuckle

2. Disconnect the steering column from the steering metering pump at knuckle (2) .

3. Check the steering column for free movement. If the steering column moves freely, connect knuckle (2) and loosen bolts (1). Do not remove bolts (1). Loosen the mounting bolts of the steering metering pump if it is necessary.

4. Check the steering column for free movement. If the steering column moves freely, hold the steering metering pump in place and tighten bolts (1) .

5. Check the steering column for free movement. If the steering column does not move freely, replace the steering metering pump. See Disassembly and Assembly, SENR8693, "Hand Metering Pump".

6. If the steering column does not move freely, replace any parts that are binding. When you assemble the steering column, make sure that the knuckles are out-of-phase with each other.

Test the steering wheel for centering

1. Stop the engine and install the steering frame locks.

2. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction and release. The steering wheel should return toward the center position.

3. If the steering wheel does not return toward the center position, check for binding in the steering column. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction and release. The steering wheel should return toward the center position.

4. If the steering wheel does not return toward the center position, there are two choices: You can replace the centering spring in the steering metering pump or you can replace the steering metering pump. See Disassembly and Assembly, SENR8693, "Hand Metering Pump".