PLATE AS 3728288 - Caterpillar

(1HD) Asphalt PaversThe Operation and Maintenance Manual KEBU2868 contains information on Page 26 dealing with the use of the "steer assist switch". This switch is used to control propel pump operation with the use of an externally mounted potentiometer which senses front wheel position. It then monitors the front wheel position and changes the pump flow to allow for differential drive wheel speeds when making turns. This feature makes steering of the machine more responsive when the hopper is empty or when the machine is being traveled from one part of a paving job to the next. Electrically and mechanically, the machine performance or durability will not be affected by use of steering assist.
Although this will improve the steering while the machine is traveling, there will also be cases that the steering assist should be used while paving.
Steering assist should be used while paving with a windrow pickup machine, because of the increased length of the attachment to the machine and the increased amount of power needed to turn the machine with the pickup machine attached.
Steering assist should also be used while paving in confined places such as parking lots where tight maneuvering is required.
Steering assist can also be used while pushing large trucks and while paving on a highway when going into a turn.
Generally speaking, there is no restriction to using the steering assist or when not to use steering assist. Job conditions will dictate the use of the steering assist.