got on the old 17A last week after sitting a couple of months , things went well until I pulled back the steering clutch and it is now stuck in the clutched position and will not release. Left one works fine , any thoughts?

Hi RF,
am thinking if a steering booster actuation valve or piston within the booster were stuck in the actuated position then the clutch would be held disengaged ONLY whilst the engine is running--when the engine stops there will be no oil boost flow/pressure to hold it so. The booster should reset as no boost oil pressure is being generated to hold against the clutch stack springs.
The hand lever would be easily moved back and forth with no return spring pressure evident if the push rod #3, shown in the second photo on page 1 below, was stuck in the engaged position--maybe possible if the rubber concertina boot has failed and water and dirt has entered the area.

This then seems to point to the issue most likely being mechanical but, it is a simple lever and rod to the clutch throw out yoke end from the booster output shaft and I see no reason for anything there to stick thereby holding the clutch disengaged.
Only thing I can think of is a clutch plate has broken or shed a lining and lodged somehow within the clutch to hold the clutch disengaged--I stand to be corrected.

Maybe remove the clutch and brake cover plate on top of the rear main case and check for any visible issues with the clutch yoke position compared to the other side unit.
Lets know what you find and we can go further from there.
Cheers,
Eddie B.

Thanks Deb. I was thinking it was in the booster, I will start it up today and see if it reset, hoping for a simple fix. Then onto next procedure of taking cover off and checking. I will keep you updated. What a good site this is!

Edb not Deb

Took cover off today and it is stuck . I think the booster is working, if I put a spacer between thelinkage of the booster and tryed to move it a little. Farther maybe I could hope for the best and piece will fall out? Maybe?

After a long look and thought, pryed and adjusted and away she goes! Thanks Edb for your help.