Assessing A Used Tractor - Other Important Items to Check

With the engine running, check power steering by rocking the steering wheel left and right. Front wheels should begin to move smoothly without relief valve squeal. Rough front wheel movement might indicate bent hydraulic cylinder rods, worn or seized knuckle joints due to lack of lubrication, or low hydraulic fluid level. With manual steering, hand movement greater than a few inches left or right before front wheels move may indicate worn steering gears (backlash) or worn pivot points in the linkages. Check the gearbox for lubricant leaks around the output shaft seals. Restricted steering wheel movement may indicate bent or twisted linkages or control arms, or poorly lubricated or binding joints.