Hydraulic Cylinder Rust

[bmac]

Disclaimer - I'm not really much of a tractor person so I'll probably use incorrect terminology to describe my problem. End of disclaimer.

For reasons I won't bore you with, my NH 29D was kept outside (uncovered)for 3 years. During that time, it was used very little. Every year, I would have a bird's nest built under the seat and I was always cleaning spider webs off before each use. It was no way to treat a tractor, I assure you.

I'm pleased to report that the tractor now resides in my basement garage, safe from the elements. However, 3 years of exposure to the elements has resulted in some damage, namely rust.

As you can see in the attached photos, each FEL hydraulic cylinder is rusting on the end cap. I'm not sure if my dealer or a hydraulic shop can replace this rusted portion of the cylinder or if I should attempt to remove the rust myself and repaint the cap. I think I would have to remove the cylinders to get to the back side. My initial thoughts were to use a wire brush or chamical (? naval jelly) to get the rust off. However, I don't want to damage the rod where it exits the cylinder.

Any ideas or suggestions?

 

[Soundguy]

I'de clean it with a brass wire brush, and keep away from the wipe... use a chemical like naval jelly if you want.. kep away from the wipe. Put masking tape around the rod and n use a qtip to rub some grese around the wipe where it meets the taped rod. Prime then paint...
Remove tape...

Soundguy

 

[firemanpat2910]

Great advise from soundguy, cant think of any better way.

 

[AlanB]

Only thing I would add would be that I would use a rust conversion primer that would convert any remaining rust and prevent it from worsening.

Available at any good paint store.

 

[bmac]

Thanks, folks.

As a follow-up question (and to really show my ignorance), When I remove the hydraulic lines from the cylinders, what should I expect in terms of fluid loss? I assume I need to relieve the line pressure before disconnecting the hoses, but, beyond that, I'm clueless. Do I need a bucket to catch a stream of fluid? Will fluid drain out of the cylinders as well as the lines? Will I need to bleed air out of the lines after I reconnect the cylinders?

As you can tell, although I've owned the tractor for 3 years, I've not done much with it andI am still at a loss as to how these things really work. Add to that my near-complete void of mechanical knowlege and you can see why I'm asking these questions.

Thanks again for your help.

 

[MadReferee]

When I remove the hydraulic lines from the cylinders, what should I expect in terms of fluid loss?

It depends on the size of cylinder. At most a couple of cups from the cylinder. Much less from the hoses.

I assume I need to relieve the line pressure before disconnecting the hoses

Yes, just shut down the tractor and move the joystick to each position for a few seconds.

Do I need a bucket to catch a stream of fluid? Will fluid drain out of the cylinders as well as the lines?

You will need something to catch the fluid from both. A crisco can or a quart jar should be more than sufficient. It will not come out with pressure, just a steady slow stream.

Will I need to bleed air out of the lines after I reconnect the cylinders?

The tractor will be self bleeding. Just cycle the loader a few times and the air will work itself out.

Don't forget to refill the hydraulic reservoir.

 

[bmac]

Thanks, Mad.