Steering knuckle 231-0701 CAT, aftermarket

Steering knuckle 231-0701 is an aftermarket part for the Caterpillar backhoe loaders.

Knuckle play is checked with the wheel raised by rocking it at top and bottom: play at the trunnions points to worn bearings or seats. The trunnion grease nipples must be greased regularly at the service interval, since ungreased trunnions wear quickly. Oil leaking from the knuckle seals lowers the oil in the planetary gearbox. When the knuckle is changed, check the track rod and steering cylinder connections too.

Specifications

Compatibility

The product cards give it as the steering knuckle of the Carraro axle used on Caterpillar backhoe loaders, with Caterpillar numbers 231-0701 and 231-0700 and Carraro numbers 148165, 148164 and 139736. Fit is confirmed by the axle serial number. The catalogue also has the aftermarket version of this part. Other parts are in Reduction gears.

Fitting

For the change, remove the wheel, planetary gearbox and axle shaft and drain the axle oil. Fit the knuckle with its trunnion bearings and shims, tighten the trunnion bolts to torque and set the preload by measurement. Connect the track rod and steering cylinder, renew the seals, top up the axle oil and check the wheel alignment. The knuckle comes new; its seats and bores are cleaned and checked before assembly.