I would guess that your machine is working in a tight application with plenty of steering operation on full lock, and in a few of these applications overheating of the motor can occur however it can be solved, and in one of three ways.

The first and easiest method is to check the steering pressure and lowering it to reduce the loading on the motor. 26A is too much as you have noted and indicates that your steering pressure relief is set too high.

The next is the later motor with cooling fan which you have seen and has a higher current rating than the original part. This is actually the final solution for the issue and so if you've burnt this motor out then I'd suggest paying close attention to the steering pressure and lowering it.

The last option and one of the initial interim solutions is to change to a smaller pump with a lower cc which puts less load on the pump and thus allow it to run cooler. However in certain applications this may lead to an insufficient supply and cause hard steering.

I would suggest contacting your local dealer and asking for assistance in getting the parts and service information relating to the above. If they are not aware of the issue then they will need to contact Cat Lift Trucks in Houston to obtain it.

One would guess that maybe the original owner did not contact a dealer on this issue which has transferred the issue to you.