[Tstar]

I have a 1974 Ford 3600 tractor that recently had a power steering pump replaced. Since then the cylinders keep bending, snapping or blowing seals. never had a problem before. The old original pump had a leak.
I think the new pump relief valve is 1000psi.
Would a 850 psi setting vs 1000psi possible make the difference?

 

[Hacke]

Hi Tstar, welcome to the forum!

The first solution that comes to mind is to replace the relief valve with the one in the old pump.

If the tractor is from 1974 it is most likely a 3000, 3600 was released in 1975. Anyhow, if it is a 3600 with cab, the relief pressure should be 850 psi. If it is a 3600 without cab, or a 3000, the relief pressure should be 650 psi.

There is a way to adjust the relief pressure by fiddling with shims in the relief valve. That is an ordeal, since the valve is inside the reservoir and you have to drain the oil each time you adjust the shims, put the cover back, fill with oil, test the pressure and (probably) do the thing again until you are satisfied. Besides, I do not know if it is possible to lower the settings that much on your pump with just the shims.

If the old relief valve can not be used, I would put an adjustable inline relief valve with a pressure gauge on the pressure line. Cheaper than buying another pump, and you will have full control.

 

[HydroTek]

Maybe use a gauge and check the current pressure, before jumping to solutions

 

[Tstar]

Appreciate the advice. Going to check out swatting out the relief valves and check the pressure.

 

[boatmoter]

I have a 1974 Ford 3600 tractor that recently had a power steering pump replaced. Since then the cylinders keep bending, snapping or blowing seals. never had a problem before. The old original pump had a leak.
I think the new pump relief valve is 1000psi.
Would a 850 psi setting vs 1000psi possible make the difference?

sounds like you have 2 lines reversed and the orbital steering motor is fighting against it self

 

[Tstar]

Positive week on the 3600 no cab - verified year 1976. started out checking pressure, new pump measured 1100psi, Reinstalled old pump to check even though it had a small leak, it was just under 725psi. Checked lines nothing crossed. looked at changing relief valves that will not work different sizes. Canister which is what leaks on my old pump is not interchangeable either. Going to order new pump rated at 850psi.
Also replaced both steering cylinders. with 5/8 rods with 7/16th threaded ends. The new cylinders fix ok, I ordered new ball joi
nt ends but had to shorten the threads to get the total length to match the old cylinders. If you go to the larger cylinders you can't use the ball joints that come with them. Verify the size you need.
Thanks again for all the advise.