Loose controls

[thingmeister]

I just acquired a 1980 Bobcat 371. the steering arms/levers are very loose, as in the swing forward and back with little to no resistance. Meaning if the rig is running and you go to get in out out, the steering handle arms will just fall and start moving the rig. There doesn't seem to be a "dead-mans" feature that pushes the control levers into the "neutral position. The previous owner had attached bungee cords to try and pull the levers back to "neutral", but i feel like there should have been a factory design to do this. what am i missing, any help is appreciated. thank you.

 

[ZekeSkyree]

Not familiar with the 371, but there should be a procedure in the service manual that would tell you what needs to be done to cure the problem. I assume worn parts/springs and then procedure to set everything up for me movement. I this case, the service manual is your best friend. I hope this helps...