Bent cylinder shaft

[Alan7s]

When we got the cylinders out of our Terramite - the ones that swing the hoe from side to side - we noticed one had a slight bend in the shaft. It seemed to work OK but leaks fluid so we're hoping to rebuild it. Is it OK to rebuild with new seals and use as is, or should we replace it? New to this, and not sure if this is common for swing cylinders and will just happen again or if it needs replacing. Also any thoughts about what causes this appreciated. Thanks

 

[Arc weld]

Could have a rock or something stuck in the swing post. Minor bends can be straightened in a press cold but you have to be careful not to mark the rod. A hyd. shop or heavy equipment repair shop could straighten it for you.

 

[metalsmith]

Bends cause the seals to wear super fast and can easily cause piston/cylinder wall wear from the piston being tilted. Best to get it straightened or replace it. Check also that it has not already damaged the outer seal housing or the wall. Somehow there was excessive force placed on that rod to bend it or its drastically undersized for the loads.