Steering Adjustment on the New Holland L785 Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The L785 and Its Mechanical Simplicity
The New Holland L785 skid steer loader was introduced in the 1980s as part of New Holland’s push into compact construction equipment. With a rated operating capacity of around 1,850 pounds and a robust mechanical drive system, the L785 became a popular choice for contractors, farmers, and municipalities. It featured a chain-driven transmission, mechanical hand controls, and a straightforward hydraulic system that made it easy to service and durable in harsh conditions.
New Holland, founded in Pennsylvania in 1895, had by then become a global brand under the Fiat Group umbrella. The L785 was one of its most successful early skid steer models, with thousands sold across North America and Europe. Its mechanical steering system—based on dual lever control of hydrostatic pumps—offered precise maneuverability but required periodic adjustment to maintain balance and responsiveness.
Steering System Layout and Terminology
The L785 uses a dual-lever steering system connected to two hydrostatic pumps. Each lever controls the flow and direction of hydraulic fluid to one side of the drive motors. When both levers are pushed forward evenly, the machine moves straight ahead. Uneven lever response or drift indicates a need for adjustment.
Terminology annotation:
- Hydrostatic pump: A variable displacement pump that controls fluid flow to drive motors, allowing infinite speed variation and direction control.
- Steering linkage: Mechanical rods and joints connecting the control levers to the pump swash plates.
- Neutral position: The lever setting where no fluid is directed to the drive motors, keeping the machine stationary.
- Drift: Unintended movement to one side when levers are centered, often caused by misalignment or wear.
Symptoms of Misalignment and Steering Imbalance
Common signs that the steering system needs adjustment include:

• Machine veers left or right when both levers are centered
  
• One lever feels stiffer or looser than the other
  
• Uneven response when reversing or turning
  
• Difficulty maintaining a straight line during travel
  

These symptoms often result from wear in the linkage, misadjusted pump control arms, or uneven cable tension. In older machines, bushings and pivot pins may also contribute to play in the system.
Adjustment Procedure and Practical Tips
To correct steering drift or imbalance:

• Park the machine on level ground and block the wheels
  
• Remove the seat and access panel to expose the pump control arms
  
• Locate the adjustment bolts or linkage rods connected to each pump
  
• Move the levers to neutral and observe the pump arms—they should be centered and not actuating flow
  
• Adjust the linkage rods or bolts incrementally to center the pump arms
  
• Test the machine by driving forward and backward, noting any drift
  
• Repeat adjustments until both levers produce equal response and the machine tracks straight
  

Recommendations:

• Use thread-locking compound on adjustment bolts to prevent loosening
  
• Replace worn bushings or pivot pins during adjustment to eliminate play
  
• Lubricate all linkage points with high-quality grease
  
• Check hydraulic fluid level and condition before testing
  

Field Anecdotes and Operator Experience
One operator in Manitoba reported persistent right-side drift despite multiple adjustments. After inspecting the linkage, he discovered a worn bushing on the left pump arm that caused delayed response. Replacing the bushing and realigning the linkage restored balanced steering.
Another technician in Georgia found that the control levers had developed excessive play due to worn pivot bolts. After installing oversized bolts and shimming the lever mounts, the machine tracked straight and responded crisply.
Preventative Maintenance and Long-Term Care
To maintain steering performance:

• Inspect linkage and pump arms every 250 hours
  
• Replace worn bushings and bolts annually
  
• Keep hydraulic fluid clean and topped off
  
• Avoid aggressive lever movements that stress the linkage
  
• Store the machine indoors to prevent corrosion on control components
  

For machines used in demolition or forestry, consider reinforcing the lever mounts and using upgraded bushings to handle vibration and shock loads.
Conclusion
Steering adjustment on the New Holland L785 is a mechanical task that requires attention to linkage alignment, pump arm centering, and component wear. With proper technique and preventative care, operators can restore precise control and extend the life of this classic skid steer. The L785’s simplicity is its strength—and with a few turns of a wrench, it can be brought back to full responsiveness, ready to tackle whatever the job demands.