D4 steering issue

After sitting most the year, my D4 7J's steering clutches don't seem to be working properly. When I push left pedal after pulling back left release bar, I get little steering movement from tractor. IE, I push hard as I can on the pedal, with minimal turning results! Feels like something not releasing, altho controls seem to operate ok??? Hope this description of problem makes sense! I can get tractor to turn to right just fine, just reluctant to respond to left request!
How much repair/service can be done thru the rear brake access panels? Is it a major job to reline the brake bands, as I have noticed that over the years it is requiring more and more pressure to get response from brakes!
Thanks for any input, Bob

Have you adjusted in the brake band screw as much as possible?

http://www.acmocbb.org/ACMOC_BB/showthread.php?t=2396&highlight=brake+band+adjustment

There's not a lot that can be done through the rear panels except inspection. It sounds like either the brake isn't properly adjusted, it's oiled/greased up, or the clutch needs adjusting. If it's oiled up, it can be washed. I'd use kerosene or diesel, NOT gasoline to do the deed. Remove the upper plate so you can see, then fill the compartment 'til the lower part of the band is covered. Drive it back and forth a bit, using the only brake occasionally, then drain and let it sit for a few minutes. Leave the cover off and run it back and forth again while "riding" the brake gently for a minute or so at a time. That should dry it out. If it's badly oiled up, you may have to repeat the rinse and dry a few times.

Those compartments need to be checked and drained occasionally as oil, grease and dust can build up in 'em.

Thanks for the adjustment link! I'll go thru the procedure when I get a chance, prob after I get my other tractor (Ferguson) back together!
Thanks, Bob