Do you think this is the same pump they are putting on new power tracs? Usually with time there are upgrades and improvements. Don't want an old pump with possible problems. My tractor is 10 years old this year. Anyone else having these issues? I am getting older and don't need these problems.
If PT changed the pump to something else, would you know how to connect it if the plumbing is different now? If so, you can source any variable displacement pump, with hydraulic remote control of the swash plate, in the 21cc range rated for 3600+ RPM's. If not, you better stick with what's in your current tractor.
I would bet PT is using the same pump. They like this pump for a variety of reasons. The same exact pump, with a slightly larger displacement, is/was used in the 1430. A quick call to Terry will confirm. On the call, you can also confirm the price for a new one. Unless you're willing to wait a long time or have detailed knowledge of hydraulic systems, your choices are limited anyway...at least if money and time are an issue, not to mention hassle.
Regarding your pump failure, this is very strange. If they are rebuilding your existing pump every time, then I would definitely want a new pump or another rebuild one. There's NO WAY the pump should fail this many times.
Perhaps unrelated, but you MUST make sure the filter is on VERY tight whenever its changed. When the tractor is cold and the oil is thick, air can get in if the filter isn't tight enough (I have a suspicion this is a common problem with early PT pump failures...early being less than 2000 hours). Also, when the tractor is cold, let it warm up for at least ten minutes before moving the tractor. I have several pieces of Kubota equipment and they want a 30 MINUTE warm up if it's below 32 degrees. And that's with multi-viscosity synthetic tractor fluid...which is much thinner than motor oil (less likely to cavitate).