Chris, has anyone documented taking this apart? I found some older threads but the links go dead. I'll keep looking as I need the details for mine. But I'm researching to see if a pilot controlled valve and accumulator might be a better alternative. That requires making the link valve into a pilot signal valve (simpler, smaller valve)
This "link" part is obviously a key component to power steering, turning force that overcomes a spring in the drag link, both directions, into opening valving to pressurize or relieve pressure with minimal hysteresis (time to react).
Please help me out. Describe the operation of this valve and cylinder and any details like metering in or out or both and if the rate of the response is fast enough. While I have had 2 deuces, one sold, they are projects, not daily drivers.
I'm okay with air if it works right, but I have the feeling that limiting the flow volume with 1/4" (maybe 3/8") lines gives a rather long response time that could be improved significantly with a valve and some supply accumulator, with larger lines, at the cylinder (not the drag link). The drag link would still have 5 lines but smaller with some steel brake lines or such. The larger line could be made to 1/2" or so.
Oh my....as I think about the operation of this valve and cylinder it is indeed complex. For example, without air supply does it hold air on both sides of the piston, making turning difficult, or is the pressure released? The operation is like my jail door lock valve but would allow free flow from A-B in the center (spring return to center). That would allow unrestricted turning in an a "no air" condition.... fail safe. Some type of additional flow control could be used to dampen the movement too.
Ideas????