Correct way to steer this IH dozer?

It is NOT like the TD6's and 9's. The "steering" brakes are operated by pulling the levers. The first 3-4" of lever travel should be free travel. The next 3-4" (approx)of travel should release the clutch. After that the lever should begin to tighten up as the brake band tightens around the drum. With the machine in 3rd gear, moving right along, pull back slowly on both levers at the same time. The clutches should release and the machine should gradually coast to a stop. If it does not then you know they are not releasing when they should. As the machine is coasting to a stop if you pull the levers all the way back it should stop suddenly as the brakes come on. If the levers tighten up and the machine does not stop and the engine begins to labor then you know the brakes are too tight or the clutches are hanging up. DO NOT use the brake pedal when operating the machine. This is only for holding the machine when parked or similar circumstances. The pedal operates both steering brakes at the same time. If you try to use it to steer or slow the machine down while in gear you will only wear the brakes out. I would highly recomend that you get the manuals on this machine if you don't already have them. If you do decide to get them give us a shout. We have some very good quality reprints available. We are also in the parts and service business, So if you are ever in need of any parts let us know. And be sure to visit our website.

• P&D Mechanical

And from my experience, my machine really will not turn that easily without using the brakes in conjunction with the clutch levers. However, if you are going up a hill, or pulling a load it will turn well without using the brakes...otherwise it has a very slow turning rate just pulling in clutch alone.

Another thing to remember is that if your machine has dry clutches (which I think the 500 does), then the clutches can and will rust up if they sit too long without use. After they get rusty they can stick and drag, causing hard steering (or no steering at all if it's bad enough). But as long as the clutch plates aren't completely fused, then using the machine in a normal manner for awhile should remove the rust and loosen everything up.

Good luck