Power steering pressure

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by DL550CAT, Apr 21, 2016.

  1. DL550CAT

    DL550CAT Road Train Member

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    I have a 06 W900L and I need to soften the steering up. It's always been pretty firm, which I like, but I'm having some trouble with my shoulder. I need to make it easier to turn the wheel in the tight spots. I run local so I'm always in a tight spot.
    I assume it has some sort of pressure regulator. Can it be as easy as a shim or two under the spring?
     
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  3. allan5oh

    allan5oh Road Train Member

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    Your pump could be weak or maybe your fluid and filter need to be changed.. Better grease helps too I find. You may also have a steering shaft that is binding up. Kenworths do tend to take more effort than most trucks I find.
     
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  4. allan5oh

    allan5oh Road Train Member

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    Also keeping your fifth wheel well lubed with a moly fortified grease is a must.
     
  5. DL550CAT

    DL550CAT Road Train Member

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    Thanks but... Nope none of the above. I've owned and drove this truck since it was new. It's always been this way. Fluid and filter are not that old. King pins are good and well greased. 5th wheel too. I was just wanting to know if anyone had experience adjusting the pump pressure. I'd like to be able to adjust the pressure for awhile then put it back after I get my shoulder healed up.
     
  6. Heavyd

    Heavyd Road Train Member

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    Usually how tight the steering feels is built into the gear by design. You can make steering easier by having a front axle alignment done and lowering the caster.
     
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  7. DL550CAT

    DL550CAT Road Train Member

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    It's the slow speed maneuvering that's giving me trouble at the moment. Sounds like I just need to learn to do more with the shiftin arm.
     
  8. allan5oh

    allan5oh Road Train Member

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    Or trade it in for a volvo

    :)
     
  9. BoxCarKidd

    BoxCarKidd Road Train Member

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    It is not a kidds toy " Sit N Spin" If the tires are rotating slightly the steering wheel effort is reduced greatly. Install a larger diameter steering wheel?
    When my shoulder was bothering me I found it helped to keep my hand between 3 and 5 o clock when turning.
    I could push a lot but it would take a while to get over a hard pull. It took me a while to figure out what activity reinjured it and what to avoid. I have near complete recovery without surgery but it took a long time.
    Be thankful you at least have power steering and use that other hand like you mentioned. Good luck with that.
     
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  10. DL550CAT

    DL550CAT Road Train Member

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    :p:p:p:p
    Are ya out outta your mind? (We already know the answer):rolleyes:
     
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  11. Ozdriver

    Ozdriver Heavy Load Member

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    I had a similar problem with mine when they put a new Sheppard steering gear in it, you can buy an oil additive from a steering specialist which seemed to help. Also I've heard you can boost pump pressure by putting a restrictor in the output side, but I'd be talking to a steering specialist about that. Different caster angles could help as well.
     
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