A distribution center reported that a Raymond 4150 reach truck had excessive play in the steering wheel and a grinding noise when turning sharp corners. The operator had to constantly correct the steering wheel to drive straight down the aisle.
The Raymond 4150 uses an orbital steering motor (orbitrol) connected to the steer axle via a steering column and universal joints. The technician first checked the steer axle pivot point. The pivot bearing, which allows the steer axle to oscillate and keep the drive wheel on the ground, was seized. This meant the axle was stuck at an angle, causing the machine to "crab walk" and placing lateral stress on the steering column.
The grinding noise was traced to the universal joints (U-joints) in the steering column. The needle bearings in the U-joints had disintegrated due to lack of grease. This created the "clunking" feel and excessive play in the steering wheel. The orbital motor itself was tested and found to be functioning correctly.
The repair involved pressing out the seized pivot bearing from the steer axle and installing a new bronze bushing and grease seal. The steering column was removed, and both universal joints were replaced with greasable serviceable units. The alignment of the steer axle was then adjusted to ensure the drive wheel was perpendicular to the ground when the steering wheel was centered. This eliminated the drift, and the grinding noise disappeared, restoring precise control in narrow aisles.
