Tractor Repair: case international 685, valve levers, case international


Question
QUESTION: Hello,
  I just bought a case international 685, and the power steering works very little. But improves when either 1 of the 2 auxillary control valve levers are pressed. Hydraulic oil level is ok., hadn't checked anything (filter?) What does this sound like?
         Thanks,
         Steve

ANSWER:    There are a few different things that can cause it.  The pump could be weak. There could be something wrong with the steering priority spool, or a blown gasket in the multiple control valve, or a problem with the steering relief valve.  Replace the filter first, and if it doesn't help then the pump pressure and flow should be checked.  If it checks out OK, then the multiple control valve should be disassembled and checked for sticking spools, broken springs, or blown o-rings or gaskets.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Replaced the filter today and didn't help (old filter looked clean, may have just been replaced?) Forgot to mention before I bought the tractor, it lifted a 6ft. mower at low idle with no problem. Does this eliminate the pump?Do you know where I can find a diagram of the valves in the MCV, and their function?
         Thanks for your help

Answer
 There is no way to know for sure if the pump is good other than flow testing it under pressure or taking it apart and inspecting the inside parts.  When a pump is flow tested, it should not lose more than 10% flow at 1000 psi. compared to the flow at no pressure.  If the remotes have good pressure and the hitch lifts OK, then the pump is probably OK, but there are other variables.  Other than a service manual, I don't know where to get a diagram of the MCV.  A parts breakdown will show an exploded view of the parts, but will not explain in detail what each part is or what is it's function.  You can see a parts breakdown by going to caseih.com and selecting parts and services.  You can do an online parts search that will show all the parts and the part numbers.