One reason a professional shop quotes replacement on a part like this is the gamble they would take on seal replacement. If the leak is due to a groove worn in the shaft, then a new seal won't seal; likewise if there is an imperfection in the seal seat that has worked its way to daylight, a new seal won't. If they replace the motor, they get their labor refunded if they get a bad motor.
Which is why shopping around helps, and taking the time to research the options helps. I'll bet if you go back to Sacto F.L. and ask, they'll charge T&M rates to replace the seal only, but they won't guarantee the repair will work.
Also, do a search for hydraulics service outfits (lotta farm equip & some industrial hydraulics still in the Sacto area, tho the industrial outfits are being chased out of state by govt) and tell them your story. I believe there is a Berendson in Sacto that can sell you the motor direct if you have the model#. And of course, you could DIY-remove the old seal and take it to Bearing, Belt & Chain (I know there is a branch in Marysville, don't know about Sacto) for a match. If you suspect a groove in the shaft (use your thumbnail to check), use a shim behind the seal to move the seal lips off the groove and you'll probably get a good seal (no warranty on this method, sorry, but it worked for me on an old outboard gear shaft).
__________________
Baja-tested '08 2-slide 36'
Alpine: The Ultimate DIY'er Project
|