K.R. Wilson shop press

[Dividing Creek]

We have a KR Wilson press that seems to pre date the models that parts are readily available for. We used this press of years in the shop pushing suspension bushings but it began leaking atf when put under pressure. The press may have worked better with hydraulic fluid but when we opened it up there is a piston ring on the piston that is compressed and stuck in the groove. Tried a couple hours in an ultrasonic cleaner hoping to free that piston ring up but no joy. The secondary leather seal is available but we punted and bought another press. Love our old stuff like the Wilson press and massive Reed 8" vise but needed something quickly.
I'm going to post this massive press for sale but if anyone has suggestions I'm open to fixing it if someone has an idea of how best to free the piston ring without damaging it. If you'd like to take it on, get in touch.

 

[Ricky Joe]

Can you post pictures? I’m in Roanoke.

 

[goldtang]

Place the piston in diesel for a couple of days or if The bore of the cylinder is ok , you could have a machine shop modify or make a new piston for the ram using up to date seals