Steering Gearbox

[Paul_NJ]

I just pulled the steering box (with power steering) off of my 340 Utility to replace the leaking expansion plug. Looks like the steering box was filled with 90 wt oil. While the unit is off, I'm considering replacing the two shaft seals, which are leaking also. Can anyone tell me how difficult a job it is to split the case to replace those seals? Will I lose any settings if I do so?

I've also read recommendations that a way to stop steering shaft oil leaks is to replace the 90 wt oil with grease. Can anyone comment on doing this instead of replacing the shaft seals? How do you fill the box with grease, anyway - do I split the box to pack it, or pump it in with a grease gun? Won't grease harden over time?

Thanks

[Bigdog]

Paul, I never worked on a 340 so I can't help with the dis-assembly but my feelings on using grease rather than gear lube is don't do it! You are correct, it will harden over time and is not an effective lube for a steering box. Replacing the seal should solve the problem unless there is severe wear in the gearbox.

[Paul_NJ]

Thanks Bigdog. I hear what you're saying. I found this post on ytmag last night. Have you ever heard of this stuff?


[/quote]Gun grease will work but I've found that John Deere corn head gearbox lube works better and stays in a flowable state better than gun grease. Its all I ever use,it comes in tube like regular gun grease.

Have you ever heard of this stuff? Perhaps this may be the way to go.

paul

[Bigdog]

I have never used the stuff but I have heard of it. If it stays fairly fluid in cold temperatures it might be worth a look.

[artc]

heard a comment about using Mobil EP2 lube in the steering box. supposed to be an EP1,2,3,4 depending on flowability.

anyone heard of this lube?