Power Steering Stiff on L2600DT

[Doinit]

Hi all, I'm a repeat visitor and first time poster. I’m having a power steering (PS) issue on my L2600DT, but am not sure it's time to tear into the PS circuit. First, as background, I recently replaced the (broken) range shift lever inside the transmission case, which of course meant splitting the tractor. In reassembly I mistakenly swapped the feed/return lines for the FEL to the block next to the Flow Priority Valve (FPV) and only after running for about 10 minutes (over several attempts) did I realize and correct my mistake. Not long (but not immediately) after this, the power PS became very stiff; however, the FEL and Rear End Lift both continue to work as expected. I reviewed my WSM and illustrated parts list to try to understand the problem but so far I’m stymied. The included image shows the FPV and feed/return lines for the FEL and PS. I do not have a hydraulic pressure test kit but by separately and temporarily (and incrementally) loosening the threaded pipe joints for the PS feed and return lines from the FPV I determined that the return pressure/volume from is zero and delivery pressure/volume is very low. Apparently most of the fluid pressure/volume is bypassing the PS in favor of the FEL, which I gather is the exact opposite of what the FPV is supposed to do. Would appreciate any/all advice on additional action I should take to diagnose/fix the problem. thanks!!

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

It sounds like you damaged the FPV when you back feed it, I would be taking that off and inspecting internals.