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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

HELP

R1600 LHD
WHEEL STEERING
SYSTEM MODULE
FORM NO. 9EP1043-00
FOR USE IN SERVICE TRAINING GUIDE:-
CEPL R1600 LHD - JANUARY 1998

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

List of Contents
Caterpillar Elphinstone R1600 LHD
List of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Important Safety Notice ............................................................................................................................. 3
R1600 Steering System Overview ............................................................................................................. 4
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Block Diagram ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Component Location .................................................................................................................................. 7
Pilot System Components .......................................................................................................................... 8
Hand Metering Unit .................................................................................................................................. 11
Neutraliser Valves .................................................................................................................................... 12
Main Steering System Components ........................................................................................................ 13
Steering Control Valve (In Hold or Neutral Position) ................................................................................ 14
Steering Control Valve (In Right Turn Position) ........................................................................................ 15
Relief Valve Section of Steering Control Valve (With Relief Valve Open) ................................................. 16
Steering System (Hold) ............................................................................................................................ 17
Steering System ( Gradual Right Turn) .................................................................................................... 19
Steering System (Full Right Turn) ............................................................................................................ 20
Secondary Steering Components ............................................................................................................ 21
Secondary Steering Operation (engine running and primary pump flow adequate) ................................ 22
Secondary Steering Operation (Primary Pump Failure or Engine Off) .................................................... 23
Adjusting Main Relief Valve (Practical Task) ............................................................................................ 24
Theory Assessment ................................................................................................................................. 25
Theory Assessment-Answers .................................................................................................................. 27
Serviceman’s Handouts .................................................................................................................... 28 - 34

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE

The course content and subject matter is current
at the time of publication. Specifications,
torques, pressure settings, measurements,
adjustments, illustrations and other items can
change at any time. Always refer to the machine
specific service manual, parts book and updates
prior to performing repairs and adjustments.
Caterpillar Elphinstone Pty Ltd cannot anticipate
every possible circumstance that might involve
a potential hazard. The warnings in this module
are therefore not inclusive. If a procedure, tool,
device or work method not specifically
recommended by Caterpillar Elphinstone Pty Ltd
is to be used, you must satisfy yourself that it is
safe for yourself and others. You should also
ensure that the machine will not be damaged or
made unsafe by the procedures you choose.

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

R1600 Steering System Overview

Module Description

Aims:
The aim of this training module is to provide participants with the operational knowledge and diagnostic skills necessary to
troubleshoot the R1600 Wheel Steering System.

Nominal Duration:
The module is designed so that most of the trainees will acquire the knowledge in one 4 hour session. The length of the
time actually taken to complete the module will vary depending on factors such as the teaching method used, the trainee’s
knowledge and skills at entry, and the individual trainee’s ability.

Pre-Requisites:
Mechanical tradesman - should have completed Basic Hydraulic Training Program (preferred but not essential).

Learning Outcomes:
As a result of studying this module, participants should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the function and operation of the wheel steering system and its components.
2. Use and understand the wheel steering system schematic.
3. Trace the oil flow through the wheel steering system during all modes of operation.
4. Apply this operational knowledge to troubleshoot a series of wheel steering system problems.
5. Use the Service Manual and Parts Book to assist with troubleshooting.

Assessment:
Tasks:
Part A: Practical Task
Part B: Theory Assessment (Multiple Choice Questions)

Resource Requirements:
• R1600 LHD loader
• Fully equipped classroom with white board and overhead projector.
• Training Module and handout material.
• Hydraulic pressure gauges.
• Service Manual.
• Parts Book.
• Tools for practical tasks.

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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
• Introduction:
• Schematic colour code:
• Testing & Adjusting
procedures:
• Serviceman’s Handouts:
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
Introduction
This presentation discusses the system operation and adjusting
procedures for the R1600 LHD Wheel Steering System.
Graphical symbols and sectional view drawings will be used when
discussing systems operations. Systems will be explained by tracing
oil flow from the tank, through the system, and back to the tank.
The colour codes for hydraulic oil used throughout this presentation are
as follows:
Red - System or High pressure Oil.
Red and White Stripes - Reduced pressure.
Orange - Pilot Pressure.
Blue - Blocked or Trapped.
Green - Tank or Return Oil.
NOTE: Always follow the procedures in the Service Manual when
testing and/or adjusting the machine.
Give each trainee a copy of the relevant serviceman’s handouts,
supplied with this training module.
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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

SELECTOR
PRESSURE CONTROL
VALVE
HAND METERING
UNIT

NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER
VALVE VALVE
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE
TO BRAKE
SYSTEM

STEERING
PUMP CONTROL VALVE

PILOT
CYLINDERS
PUMP

FILTER OIL COOLER

TANK

Block Diagram

• Pilot system consists of: This block diagram of the R1600 system shows the components and
- Pilot pump oil flow. The steering pilot circuit consists of the pilot pump, pressure
- Pressure reducing valve reducing valve, selector and pressure control valve, hand metering unit
- Selector valve and two neutraliser valves. When the steering wheel on the hand
- Hand metering unit metering unit is moved to the left or right, pilot oil (orange) is sent
- Two neutraliser valves through the respective neutraliser valve to the directional control valve
in the main steering control valve. The pilot oil moves the directional
control valve and allows steering pump oil to flow to the cylinders.

• Main system consist of: The main steering circuit consists of the steering pump, the steering
-Steering pump control valve and the steering cylinders. The steering pump draws oil
- Control valve (green) from the tank and sends oil flow (red) to the steering control
- Steering cylinders valve.

• Steering control valve The steering control valve houses the system relief valve and directional
contains system relief and control spool. In the HOLD position, the oil (blue) to the steering
directional control spool. cylinders is blocked.

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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
• Steering system components:
(1) Pilot pump
(2) Pressure reducing valve
(3) Selector & pressure
control valve
(4) Hand metering unit
(5) Neutralisers
(6) Steering pump
(7) Main control valve
(8) Steering cylinder
(9) Oil cooler
(10) Hydraulic tank
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
5 7 4 2 1 6 9
8 10 3
Component Location
The steering hydraulic system is made up of two basic circuits, the pilot
circuit and the main steering circuit.
When the machine is equipped with the optional secondary steering
attachments or the reversible steering attachments, the steering system
also includes these additional circuits.
The main components of the pilot circuit are the pilot pump (1),
pressure reducing valve (2), selector and pressure control valve (3),
hand metering unit (4), hydraulic tank (10), oil filters
(contained inside the tank) and neutralisers (5).
The primary components of the main steering circuit are the hydraulic
tank (10), oil filters (contained inside the tank), steering pump (6),
steering control valve (7), oil cooler (9) and steering cylinders (8).
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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
1. Brake and pilot pump.
3 4
3. Selector and pressure control valve.
• The brake and pilot pump is
part of the three-section
vane-type pump
• The brake and pilot pump
supplies oil to:
- Implement pilot circuit
- Parking brake circuit
- Service brake circuit
- Steering pilot circuit
• Pump oil flows from the pump,
through the pressure reducing
valve to the pilot control valve
• The pressure reducing valve
limits maximum oil pressure
in the pilot oil circuit
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
1
2. Pressure reducing valve.
4. Hydraulic tank.
5. Breaker relief valve.
4
Pilot System Components
The brake and pilot pump (1) is part of the three-section vane-type
pump mounted on the torque converter housing. The brake and pilot
pump supplies oil to the emergency/parking brake circuit, service
brake circuit, implement pilot circuit and steering pilot circuit. The
centre section of the pump supplies oil to the steering system. The
forward section of the pump supplies oil to the implement hydraulic
system.
Oil flows from pump (1) to the pilot pressure reducing valve (2). The
pressure reducing valve (2) maintains a constant pressure in the pilot oil
circuit.
Oil flows from pressure reducing valve (2) to selector and pressure
control valve (3). The selector and pressure control valve (3) blocks the
flow of alternate pilot oil into the steering system.
Continued
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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
• The selector and pressure
control valve will supply
alternate oil to the pilot
circuit
• The hydraulic tank with filters
mounted inside tank
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
But if the pilot pump fails, or oil is not available, then selector and
pressure control valve (3) will allow alternate pilot oil to flow into the
steering system from either the lift cylinders or from the steering control
valve.
The hydraulic tank (4) is located on the right hand side of the machine
and supplies oil to the brake and pilot pump and steering pump. The
hydraulic return filters are mounted inside the tank. There is a bypass
valve for the filter elements. Whenever the restriction is too high, the
bypass valve will open. The breaker relief valve (5) is used to prevent
both excessive pressure and a vacuum in the tank.
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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
1. Steering wheel assembly.
3. Neutraliser valve.
Pilot System Components ( continued)
• The hand metering unit sends
pilot oil to the steering
control valve to turn the
machine left or right
• At the end of a turn the striker
moves neutraliser valve spool
stopping oil flow to the
control valve
• Centering spring centres the
control valve, and the
machine stops turning
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
HAND
METERING
UNIT
1
2
2. Hand metering unit.
4
4. Striker.
5
The steering wheel assembly (1) is connected to the hand metering unit
(2), which is mounted to the cab wall behind the steering wheel. The
hand metering unit (2) sends pilot oil to move the directional spool in the
steering control valve to turn the machine left or right.
The two neutraliser valves (3) are mounted on the rear frame. Each
neutraliser valve has an adjustable striker (4) mounted on the front
frame. When the machine makes a maximum turn (either left or right),
the respective striker will contact the neutraliser valve at the end of the
turn. The striker moves the neutraliser valve spool and blocks oil flow
to the directional control valve in the steering control valve.
With the oil flow stopped, the directional control valve centering spring
centres the valve and stops the machine from turning before the
machine turns against the frame stops.
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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
1 2
4 5
• Hand Metering Unit (HMU)
(1) Tank port
(2) Pressure port
(3) Spool
(4) Left turn port
(5) Right turn port
(6) Metering section gear
(A) Control Section
(B) Metering Section
• The control section directs
the pilot oil flow to either the
left or right turn circuit when
the steering wheel is turned
• The metering section
determines the amount of
pilot oil flow from the HMU
• More pilot oil flow from the
HMU results in a faster turn
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
6
?
6
Hand Metering Unit
The hand metering unit (HMU) has two main sections: control section
(A), and pump or metering section (B). These two sections work
together to send pilot oil to the steering control valve. The steering
wheel is connected to spool (3) by a shaft assembly and splines.
Oil from the steering pump flows through inlet (2) into the control
section (A) of the HMU. When the steering wheel is turned, the control
section sends oil to the metering section (B). From the metering
section, the oil flows back to the control section. The control section
then directs the oil out either port (4) or (5) to the steering control valve.
The metering section is a small hydraulic pump. It controls (meters) the
pilot oil that goes to the steering control valve. As the steering wheel is
turned faster, there is an increase in the flow of pilot oil to the steering
control valve. This increased flow causes the main valve spool to move
further. As the spool moves further, more oil can flow from the steering
pump to the steering cylinders, and a faster turn is made.
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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

LESS THAN MAXIMUM TURN

TO FROM
STEERING STIC PILOT
CONTROL CONTROL VALVE
VALVE
NEUTRALISER VALVE
ORIFICE SPRING

TO TANK

MAXIMUM TURN
TO FROM
VALVE SPOOL CENTER PASSAGE STEERING STIC PILOT
CONTROL CONTROL VALVE
VALVE
ORIFICE SPRING

TO TANK

VALVE SPOOL CENTER PASSAGE

Neutraliser Valves

• Normal flow Shown is a sectional view of the neutraliser valve.

During less than maximum articulation, oil from the hand metering unit
flows through the neutraliser valve to the steering control valve.

• Striker moves neutraliser When the striker moves the neutraliser valve spool, oil flow to the
valve spool steering control valve is blocked. Pilot oil at the steering valve flows
back through the orifice of the centre passage in the spool valve to
• Pilot oil to drain drain. The centering spring in the steering valve, centres the directional
spool in the steering valve and stops the machine from turning.

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

1
1. Steering pump. 2. Control valve.

4
5
4. Steering cylinder. 5. Oil cooler.
8

Main Steering System Components

• The main steering pump is The main steering pump (1) is part of the three-section vane-type pump
part of the three-section mounted on the torque converter housing. The main steering pump is
vane-type pump the middle section and supplies oil to the steering control valve.

• The steering control valve Steering control valve (2) is located in the rear frame, immediately to the
houses the system relief, rear of the articulation hitch. The steering control valve houses the
directional control, line relief system relief valve, directional control valve, line relief and make up
and make-up valves valves. The steering control valve sends oil to the steering cylinders.

• The oil cooler is hinge The oil cooler (5) is hinge mounted on the outside of the radiator and
mounted on the rear of the can be swung out for servicing. Access is gained by opening the guard
radiator at the rear of the machine. The oil cooler is air cooled by the engine fan
and cools the steering return oil.

• Cycle times for steering left or The double acting differential steering cylinders (4) are located at the
right are the same lower articulated hitch area of the machine. The cycle times for
steering left or right are the same.

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

STEERING CONTROL VALVE

HOLD 1 3 2
TO H.M.U. TO TANK

FROM
STEERING
PUMP

FROM
H.M.U.

5
LEFT TURN RIGHT TURN 6 7 FROM H.M.U.
9

Steering Control Valve (In Hold or Neutral Position)

• Steering Control Valve In
Hold (Neutral) Position
(1) Inlet from steering pump
(2) Combination flow control
/relief valve
(3) Outlet to tank
(4) Control valve spool
(5) Inlet from HMU
(6) Centering spring
(7) Inlet from HMU
• Pump oil is blocked by the
control spool and
combination valve
• The combination valve opens
and oil flows to tank
When the steering wheel is turned, the HMU sends pilot oil to either
port (5) or (7). The flow of pilot oil is stopped when: (a) rotation of the
steering wheel is stopped, or (b) the neutraliser valve stops the flow
(after a complete turn has been made). With no pilot oil flow against
either end of the valve spool (4), spring (6) will keep the spool in the
NEUTRAL position.
When the steering control valve is in the NEUTRAL position, the oil from
the steering pump is stopped by valve spool (4). The pressure increases
in inlet passage (1). This pressure increase moves the combination
valve (2) to the right. The combination valve moves until oil can flow
through it to outlet (3).
In the NEUTRAL position, the valve spool also blocks (holds) the oil in
the lines to the cylinders. This holds the machine in the turned position
where the steering wheel was stopped.

• The combination valve

functions as a dump valve

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

TO
H.M.U. 1 2 TO TANK 3

FROM
STEERING
PUMP

4
8
6

TO
H.M.U.

7
5 TANK LEFT TURN 10 RIGHT TURN TANK
9 FROM H.M.U.
11
STEERING CONTROL - RIGHT TURN
10

Steering Control Valve (In Right Turn Position)

(1) Inlet from steering pump When a right hand turn is made, pilot oil is sent to passage (7). The oil
(2) Combination flow control flows into the chamber for spring (6) and moves valve spool (4) to the
/relief valve left. Slow rotation of the steering wheel results in less flow of pilot oil
(3) Outlet to tank and less spool movement. A slow turn is the result. Fast rotation
(4) Control valve spool results in more spool movement, and a faster turn.
(5) Inlet from HMU
(6) Centering spring Pilot oil flows from the spring chamber across metering orifices (11) in
(7) Inlet from HMU valve spool (4). This oil flows through passage (9), out port (5) and to
(8) Ball resolver valve tank via the HMU. This bleed-off of pilot oil will cause valve spool (4) to
(9) Passage return to the NEUTRAL position if rotation of the steering wheel is
(10) Outlet for right turn stopped. The operator must keep turning the steering wheel to keep
(11) Orifice the valve spool in the right turn position.

• Pilot oil moves the valve
spool to the left
• Pressure oil flows to the
steering cylinders causing a
right hand turn
With valve spool (4) moved to the left, oil from the steering pump flows
from inlet (1), through slots in the spool, into outlet (10). This oil flows to
the head end of the left steering cylinder and the rod end of the right
steering cylinder, causing a right hand turn.
The pressure in outlet (10) is felt in the spring chamber behind valve (2).
This pressure keeps valve (2) to the left (closed).

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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
1
2 3
5
Relief Valve Section of Steering Control Valve (With Relief Valve Open)
(1) Ball resolver valve
(2) Passage
(3) Flow control valve
(4) Relief valve (pilot valve)
(5) Ports
(6) Orifice
• The combination valve
functions as a flow control
valve until an outside force
prevents the machine from
turning
• Blocked cylinders stop oil
flow
• System pressure increases to
the relief valve setting
• The combination valve
functions as a relief valve
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
4
6
11
The pressure of oil in the steering cylinders is felt through passage (2),
against pilot valve (4) and flow control valve (3).
If an outside force prevents the machine from turning, the pressure in
ports (5) will increase. This pressure increase is also felt against pilot
valve (4) and flow control valve (3). The pressure against the flow
control valve causes it to move to the left. This allows more oil to flow
to the cylinders. If the pressure rises above the relief valve setting, the
pilot valve (4) will open.
When the pilot valve opens, oil flows through passage (2) and orifice (6).
The flow of oil through orifice (6) causes a pressure drop in the flow
control valve spring chamber. This lets the pressure of the oil in the
inlet passage move flow control valve (3).
Oil from inlet (5) can flow through the holes in the flow control valve,
which now works as a dump valve. This releases the extra pressure
from the circuit. When the outside force is gone and the pressure is
reduced, the flow control valve and pilot valve return to their normal
positions.
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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

12

Steering System (Hold)

• Pilot steering circuit with the With the engine running oil flows from the hydraulic tank to the brake
engine running and pilot pump. The pilot pump is a vane-type pump.

• Pressure reducing valve The oil from the pump flows to the pressure reducing valve. The
maintains a constant pressure reducing valve maintains a constant pressure in the pilot
pressure in the pilot circuit circuit. The pump also supplies oil to the emergency/parking brake
circuit and the hydraulic implement pilot circuit.
• The brake and pilot pump
supplies oil to: Oil flows from the pressure reducing valve to the selector and pressure
(a) Emergency/parking control valve. The selector and pressure control valve blocks the flow
brake circuit of alternate pilot oil into the pilot system.
(b) Hydraulic implement
pilot circuit But if the pilot pump fails, or oil is not available, then the selector and
(c) Steering pilot circuit pressure control valve will allow alternate pilot oil to flow into the pilot
circuit from the lift cylinders.
• The selector and pressure
control valve blocks alternate oil The pilot oil then flows to the hand metering unit (HMU).

Continued

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

When the hand metering unit is in the neutral position, the main steering
• Hand metering unit in the
pump supplies oil the main steering control valve.
neutral position, main
steering pump supplies oil to
The combination valve located in the main control valve. Acts as a
the main steering control
unloader valve and dumps oil through the oil cooler to the tank. (See
valve
operation of the main steering control valve, Hold in this module)
• The combination valve in the
main control valve acts as a
unloader valve and dumps oil
through the oil cooler to tank

Page 18
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

13

Steering System ( Gradual Right Turn)

• Steering system in a gradual When the machine is in operation and the steering wheel is rotated
right turn clockwise, the machine will turn to the right.

• Pilot oil moves the main
steering control valve spool
Pilot oil from the HMU flows through the right neutraliser valve (unless
the machine is fully articulated). From the neutraliser valve the oil flows
to the main steering control valve moving the spool to the left. The oil
also flows (bleeds off) to the right hand side of the spool through an
orifice in the spool.

• Steering pump oil flows to the Oil from the steering pump can now flow to the head end of the left side
steering cylinders steering cylinder and the rod end of the right side steering cylinder. The
machine will articulate to the right. Oil from the opposite ends of the
steering cylinders flows back to the tank through the main control valve
spool.

• Combination valve acts as a At the same time, oil pressure flows via the check valve and orifice to
flow control valve the combination valve (relief and flow control valve), contained in the
main control valve. The flow control valve allows pump oil that is not
needed for the turn to return to tank. The relief will open if the pressure
in the system becomes to high.

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

14

Steering System (Full Right Turn)

• FULL RIGHT TURN with the If the operator continues to rotate the steering wheel clockwise, the
engine running machine will articulate fully right.

• Striker contacts right The striker mounted on the rear frame will contact the right turn
neutraliser valve neutraliser. Pilot oil flow from the HMU to the steering control valve is
blocked by the neutraliser valve.

• Pilot oil flow to control valve An orifice in the main steering control valve spool allows the pilot oil at
spool is blocked and the the right hand side of the valve spool to flow to the left hand side of the
spool returns to the neutral spool. The left hand side of the spool is open to tank via the left
position neutraliser. The steering control valve spool will return to the hold
position. The steering valve spool will block the oil in the steering
• Machine stops turning cylinders and the machine stops turning.

When the machine turns back to the left, the striker will move away
from the neutraliser valve. The valve stem will move back to the open
position.

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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
Secondary Steering Components
• Explain function and location
• Ground driven pump
• Secondary steering diverter
valve
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
1
2
15
The secondary steering pump (1) is mounted on the front of the
transmission case.
It is a ground driven pump that rotates when the machine moves. The
optional secondary steering system has two purposes:
(a) To provide steering supply oil should the primary
steering pump system fail while the machine is moving.
(b) To supply oil if the engine should stop while the machine
is moving.
The secondary steering diverter valve (2) is mounted on the side of the
secondary steering pump (1).
Two check valves, relief valve and two spool valves are housed within
the diverter valve which directs the supplemental pump oil flow,
depending on the machines operational mode.
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CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.
DIVERTER
VALVE
TANK
Secondary Steering Operation
(Engine Running and Primary Pump Flow Adequate)
• Secondary steering pump is a
ground driven pump
• Engine running and primary
pump flow adequate
• Diverter spool opens to tank
• Secondary pump output
returns to tank
• The four check valves allows
reverse flow in the secondary
pump
• The relief valve protects the
system
Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
TO STEERING MAIN
CONTROL VALVE
SECONDARY
STEERING PUMP
STEERING
IMPLEMENT
PILOT
16
Secondary steering pump is a ground driven pump. It is turned as long
as the machine moves. The pump gets its drive from the output
transfer gears of the transmission.
When the engine is running, the oil from the primary steering pump
flows into the diverter valve. The force of the oil opens check valve (1)
and allows oil to flow to the steering system. This oil also holds check
valve (2) closed and opens diverter valve spool to tank.
This spool movement allows secondary steering pump oil to circulate
back to tank. The four check valves in the secondary steering pump
allows the pump to supply oil when the machine is moving in either the
forward or reverse direction.
The relief valve is in the system to protect the secondary steering pump
from damage.
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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

TO STEERING MAIN
CONTROL VALVE

DIVERTER
VALVE

SECONDARY
STEERING PUMP

STEERING

IMPLEMENT

PILOT
TANK

17

Secondary Steering Operation

(Primary Pump Failure or Engine Off)
• Machine moving with a failure If there is a failure of the primary pump or engine stops while the
of primary pump or engine off machine is moving, the pressure behind the check valve is reduced.
and the supplemental pump The diverter spool will close to tank due to the combination of the
supplies oil to the steering spring force and load sensing oil from the main steering control valve.
system
This stops the circulation of secondary pump oil to tank. Oil from the
• The diverter valve spool is secondary pump is now forced out through the check valve. This oil
held closed by a spring then flows to the steering system.

• Check valve stops flow of oil The check valve prevents secondary pump oil returning to tank through
through the steering pump to the primary steering pump when the pump has failed or the engine is
tank not running and the machine is moving.

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

18

Adjusting Main Relief Valve (Typical)

(Practical Task)

Explain tasks: Each trainee will be required to successfully complete the tasks listed
below.
1. Adjusting and setting the main relief valve.
2. Adjust the neutraliser stops.

Practical Test Guidelines

1. The trainee must find the procedure in the Service Manual.
2. The trainee must follow the procedure and successfully complete
the task.

Service Manual:

Always check the Service Manual for the correct specifications and
testing and adjusting procedures.

Page 24
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

R1600 LHD Wheel Steering System

Theory Assessment

Directions: Multiple Choice.

Read each statement carefully and circle the letter(s) of the correct answer(s)
* Reference to notes and other literature is allowed.

Q.1. The steering hydraulic system has:

A. One circuit
B. Ten circuits
C. Two circuits
D. Four circuits

Q.2. The pilot system is a:

A. Open centre design
B. Blocked valve design
C. Closed centre design
D. Pedal controlled design

Q.3. The brake and pilot pump is a:

A. Centrifugal pump
B. Piston pump
C. Vane pump
D. Gear pump

Q.4. The brake and pilot pump supplies oil to:

A. Pilot and transmission systems
B. Brake and pilot systems
C. Brake and hydraulic systems
D. Pilot and oil cooling systems

Q.5. The pilot system pr essur

pressur
essuree rreducing
educing valve limits maximum oil pr essur
pressur
essuree in the:
A. Pilot system
B. Transmission system
C. Accumulator charging circuit
D. Main hydraulic circuit

Continued

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 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

Q.6. The selector and pr essur

pressur
essuree contr ol valves supply and rregulate
control egulate oil pr essur
pressur
essuree to the steering
system if:
A. The engine is running
B. The bucket is grounded
C. Pilot oil is not available
D. The bucket positioner is turned on

Q.7. The hand metering unit (HMU) dir ects oil to:
directs
A. The implement control valve
B. The main steering valve
C. The float sequence valve
D. The bucket positioner valve

Q.8. The neutraliser valves:

A. Stop the steering action before the machine turns against the frame stops
B. Protect the steering cylinders from damage if hit by an external force
C. Stop the bucket from crowding back to far
D. Shut down the engine if the door is opened

Q.9. The main steering contr ol valve dir

control ectional spool is shifted by:
directional
A. High pressure oil from the pilot system
B. A lever
C. Pilot oil from the hand metering unit (HMU)
D. The transmission control system

Q.10. The supplemental steering pump is mounted on the:

Q.10.The
A. Front of the intermediate driveshaft
B. Back of the output transfer gearbox
C. Torque converter housing
D. Front of the main implement pump

Page 26
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

R1600 LHD Wheel Steering System

Theory Assessment-Answers

Q.1. C.

Q.2. C.

Q.3. C.

Q.4. B.

Q.5. A.

Q.6. C.

Q.7. B.

Q.8. A.

Q.9. C.

Q.10. B.

Page 27
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

STEERING CONTROL VALVE

Serviceman’s Handout No. 1

Steering Control Valve (In Hold or Neutral Position)

(1) Control valve spool

(2) Centering spring
(3) Inlet from steering pump
(4) Inlet from HMU
(5) Combination flow control/relief valve
(6) Outlet to tank
(7) Inlet from HMU

Page 28
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

STEERING CONTROL VALVE

10

Serviceman’s Handout No. 2

Steering Control Valve (In Right Turn Position)

(1) Inlet from HMU

(2) Passage
(3) Inlet from steering pump
(4) Inlet from HMU
(5) Centering spring
(6) Orifices
(7) Outlet to tank
(8) Outlet for right turn
(9) Combination flow control/relief valve
(10) Control valve spool
(11) Ball resolver valve

Page 29
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

12

Serviceman’s Handout No. 3

Steering System (Hold)

System pump pressure

Pilot pressure

Blocked oil
Tank or return oil

Page 30
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

13

Serviceman’s Handout No. 4

Steering System (Gradual Right Turn)

System pump pressure

Pilot pressure
Blocked oil
Tank or return oil

Load pressure

Page 31
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

FROM LIFT
CYLINDERS
MAIN STEERING
CONTROL
VALVE TO BRAKE
SYSTEM
PRESSURE
REDUCING
VALVE

STEERING
OIL COOLER
CYLINDERS
TO IMPLEMENT
PILOT CONTROL
VALVE

H. M. U.

DIVERTER SELECTOR AND PRESSURE

VALVE CONTROL VALVE

LEFT RIGHT
NEUTRALIZER NEUTRALIZER

CHECK
VALVE

SECONDARY TANK

IMPLEMENT
STEERING PUMP

PILOT
STEERING

14

Serviceman’s Handout No. 5

Steering System (Full Right Turn)

System pump pressure

Pilot pressure
Blocked oil
Tank or return oil

Page 32
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

TO STEERING MAIN
CONTROL VALVE

DIVERTER
VALVE

SECONDARY
STEERING PUMP

STEERING
IMPLEMENT

PILOT
TANK

16

Serviceman’s Handout No. 6

Secondary Steering ( Engine Running)

System pump pressure

Supplemental pump oil
Tank or return oil

Page 33
 Service Training Module
Wheel Steering System
CATERPILLAR ELPHINSTONE PTY. LTD.

TO STEERING MAIN
CONTROL VALVE

DIVERTER
VALVE

SECONDARY
STEERING PUMP

STEERING
IMPLEMENT

PILOT
TANK

17

Serviceman’s Handout No. 7

Secondary Steering ( Engine Stopped)

System pump pressure

Supplemental pump oil
Tank or return oil

Page 34