AXLE ASSEM. 7D6685 - Caterpillar

operational checks can be used to define a problem in the steering system. Before you begin the checks, refer to Troubleshooting, "Machine Preparation for Troubleshooting" and Troubleshooting, "Visual Inspection".This procedure will help to identify any steering hydraulic system problems.
The front wheels must be on a dry, smooth hard surface and the hydraulic oil in the steering system must be warm.
Start the machine. In first gear, slowly drive the machine while you turn the steering wheel. Drive the machine until the hydraulic oil temperature is approximately 65°C (150°F).
Stop the machine. Note: Ensure that the brakes are released during the following procedure.
Test the steering system with the engine at high idle.
Rotate the steering wheel. Measure the time that is required to turn the front wheels from the full left turn position to the full right turn position and back to the full left turn position. Rotate the steering wheel at one revolution per second.
Refer to the section Testing and Adjusting, "Worksheets" for this machine in order to record the results of the test. This procedure will also help to identify any steering hydraulic system problems.
Repeat Step 1 through Step 4 from the previous test.
Rotate the steering wheel all the way in the left direction until the left steering stop is reached. Rotate the steering wheel completely in the right direction until the right steering stop is reached. Turn the steering wheel at one revolution per second.
Refer to the section Testing and Adjusting, "Worksheets" for this machine in order to record the number of turns of the steering wheel. If either one of these checks is out of specifications, then there could be a problem with the steering system.