300CX Lift Cylinder Issue?

[Neophyte]

I only have about 50 hours on my 300CX FEL.

While I was cleaning my tractor today, I noticed that the C-Ring on the left lift cylinder (see attached) was rattling around on the shaft and the seal was sucked in a bit. The ring looked bowed in like the seal had been sucking it into the cylinder until it bent enough and popped off. I was able to bend the C-ring somewhat back into shape and get it back on but I don't expect it to stay on.

What would cause this? Should the seal be moving in and out of the cylinder enough to be able to bow the C-ring?

Does this need to be brought back to the dealer to be repaired under warranty?
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[Wesdor]

Looks like a problem to me, although I am surprised that nothing is leaking out.

Since it is still under warranty, I'd at least talk to my dealer and make them aware of the problem. My guess is that they will want to take care of it.

Good luck.

 

[Neophyte]

I used my loader today for about 10 to 20 minutes and it seemed to stay on. Regardless, I will be talking with my dealer tomorrow. I will let you know what they say.

Has anyone else ever had this problem?

 

[jd110]

I suspect you might have a bent cylinder rod. Try raising the loader all the way and look at the exposed rod. If you have a straight edge, you could lay it on the rod to see if it looks straight.

 

[Neophyte]

I will check this tomorrow. How would one bend a cylinder rod?

 

[Neophyte]

I checked the cylinder today and it doesn't seem to be bent.

I talked with my dealer and he said I should remove the cylinder and bring it in so they can rebuild it.

Is there anything I should be aware of before I remove this cylinder? Any advice?