hydro steering

[sean1]

need to set up full hyro on my jeep.  need help.  never done anything like this.  any advice?

[Rick_Bear]

Admitting that you have no experience with a project like this I'd like to ask a few questions first.

1) Will this Jeep be used strickly for off-road use...?
2) Will this Jeep be driven on the street from time to time...?

Understand that there are two ways to set-up a hydro system.

1) Full Hydro - Fully dependant on fluid and consists of eight key components needing installed correctly.
2) Ram Assist - Works to assist your existing system and quite simple to install with a kit.

A fully hydraulic system requires detail when installing. Whereas an assist system is quite easy.
Both will offer improved results. But, the fully hydro system is well known for strickly off-road use but when set up correctly is fully capable for street use.

Hell, Catapillar didn't spend millions to refine a system for the millions of heavy duty dump trucks out there for nothing. It just needs to be done correctly.

[sean1]

it will be strictly offroad.  yeah i understand that some full hydro set ups depend solely on fluid to drive the system.  like some of the old farm tractors.  would like to try it but i do realize this is something that must be done correctly for my safety aswell as others.

[Rick_Bear]

Ok, now that you've decided that part.

Have you considered the cost...? It's not a cheap decision by any means and requires assistance to install if not knowledgeable.

1) Hydro Rams & Connecting Parts = $200-$220.00
2) Ram Mounting Kit = $100.00
3) Clevis Kit = $100.00
4) Orbital (Steering Control Valve) = $275
5) Above Mounting Kit = $20-$25.00
6) Steering Columns = $50-$60.00
7) Tie Rod Kit = $130-$140.00
8) Lines & Fittings = $20-$25.00

Total Investment without labor = $895.00-$945.00

Pretty BIG investment with NEW parts. People have done it for less with the abilities to improvise and aquire used parts.

No, I have never install one. I do understand how and why they work so damn well. I might have forgotten a fluid cooler too, I've seen some systems with those installed.

A "Ram Assist" system can be had with all needed compenents http://www.xtremeterrain.com/hydraulicassiststeeringkits.aspx

[sean1]

it is expensive fo rsure.  but i am running 42" tsl's.  would an assist system be enough?

[Rick_Bear]

They are rated for 40+ from what I understand. Let me ask around.