Author Topic: '96 Patriot steering box leak  (Read 3162 times)

Jeff Johnson

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'96 Patriot steering box leak
« on: October 31, 2019, 08:08:18 PM »
Hi,
Looking for any info on a leaking steering box leak that just appeared last night, it appears to be a seal. We have  a 1996 Patriot Savannah 33' with 3126B engine on a Magnum chassis.

Any suggestions on who made the box and where to get it repaired near Seattle area would be great.

Thank you in advance for any replies.
Jeff
1996 Patriot Savannah
CAT 3126B

Mike Shumack

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #1 on: November 01, 2019, 01:23:51 PM »
Jeff, according to my research the 1996-2002 Patriot used the Magnum B-series ("Magnum Air") chassis.
FYI - the Patriot Thunders used the Magnum C-series (big Cat) chassis.

I have a component chart for the 2001 Patriot that states the Steering Box is a "TRW Ross" unit. I assume it is the same throughout the model year range - but I don't knwo for sure.

You can read more about the chassis here (link at Beaver Members only Section> Coach Assist>BEAVER CHASSIS TYPES, INFO, MANUALS, & HISTORY  https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=%21ANhEQr1h0E%5FTwmc&id=D3A67EE50F5FC0DB%214501&cid=D3A67EE50F5FC0DB

I have a service manual if you need a copy. It has parts breakdown and part numbers.
The steering gear model number is based on the front axle capacity. I didn't look up the GAWR for your coach, but my guess is you have the 9,000 lb axle (as your coach is short).

« Last Edit: November 01, 2019, 03:48:26 PM by Mike Shumack »

Jeff Johnson

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #2 on: November 01, 2019, 05:34:02 PM »
Mike,
Thank you for that great information. Hopefully the shop I have it at can rebuild it, Motor truck International in Everett. We'll see how it goes.
Thanks again,
Jeff
1996 Patriot Savannah
CAT 3126B

Jeff Johnson

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #3 on: November 01, 2019, 05:38:19 PM »
Mike,
I believe my GVWR is 34,000. So not sure what that means in front axle ratings.
Jeff
1996 Patriot Savannah
CAT 3126B

Mike Shumack

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #4 on: November 01, 2019, 06:52:21 PM »
I looked at the brochure for your Patriot (in the Coach Assist section) it says you have a 12,000 lb front axle, so I would think the steering gear on your coach would be the "TAS55".  But you should still look for the tag on the box and go by that.

Does it need a complete rebuild - or just a seal kit?




Carl Boger

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #5 on: November 02, 2019, 12:51:27 AM »
According to the plaque in my 1998 Patriot Savannah, 33 footer, the front GAWR is 11,000 lbs so It probably does have the 12K steering box. Rear axle is 19,000 lbs, and GVWR is 30,000lbs.
Carl

98 Beaver Patriot Savannah
330 hp Cat 3126

Jeff Johnson

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #6 on: November 02, 2019, 05:26:01 PM »
Carl and Mark,
Thank you for your help.
It appears the steering box is a Sheppard M83 but I can's find a serial number or any other build codes etc. In looking at Sheppard's web site it appears the code could be where it is bolted to the mounting plate. Perfect!

Still looking for a commercial steering box rebuilder in Seattle area.

Thank you,
Jeff
1996 Patriot Savannah
CAT 3126B

Jeff Johnson

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Re: '96 Patriot steering box leak
« Reply #7 on: November 07, 2019, 01:49:19 AM »
The steering box leak was repaired by Redhead in Auburn Wa.($490 with tax) Did a great quick turn around (24 hours) and the folks up at Motor Truck International in Everett (4.5 hours x $170=850 with tax) did the removal and install and test drove it.
There were others too, Weller Parts and Gittspring, both in the south end that looked competent enough.

It was not easy to find any of them on the web, I had to do several searches with several nomenclature modifiers.



1996 Patriot Savannah
CAT 3126B