CAT Telehandler Steering stutter/popping

TH255C, S/N JK200551. The front end stutters/pops when steering left or right. The stutter/pop only occurs during the turn. It does not occur when not moving or held at the steer stops. It is more pronounced when the machine is warmed up. Also, when hot, two-cylinder operation is not normal. Meaning, the boom up/down is sluggish when operated with the boom out/in. Occasionally the boom up/down operation will suddenly stop when warm and operating with the boom out/in. The Hyd fluid and filter were replaced six months ago and the operator stated the issues started about 3 months ago. The initial thought was the u-joints were worn and causing the popping but all u-joints are tight. I put the machine on jack stands and there was no popping or stuttering when turning. I went through the steering system purge procedure with no change to the stutter/pop. I have not checked hyd press at any test ports but I am thinking a relief valve may be failing. Does anyone have experience with this issue?

Sounds like your spider gears have failed. Remove the drain plug and see if you have metal or pieces of gear.

Thanks Paul. I didn't notice anything unusual when I changed the axle and drop box oil this winter but will pull the plug and check it out. I should have mentioned the stutter/pop is present even when the machine is stationary and the wheels are turned left and right. I parked the machine in gravel and in dirt to eliminate potential tire grab.

Can i have the real serial number

i wonder if the machine has limited slip diff, a place i used to work had a cat telehandler that would need a good dose of limited slip additive, on that one the brakes would chatter

jesse beiler said:

i wonder if the machine has limited slip diff, a place i used to work had a cat telehandler that would need a good dose of limited slip additive, on that one the brakes would chatter

Click to expand...

GOOD PICK UP