Sorry my bad, yes definitely need the kit so you don't wreck a packing during install. But I've had bad luck with TK packings and we switched to Gorman for all telescoping and conventional.
yes I like Gorman too. have had issues with Texacone on the TK stuff too but it may have been installation error by previous repair crew.
rooster, yes have also been told to sand the whole piston if they are "shiney". I wonder if some scotchbrite pads and hose clamps and let the unit run for a day or 2 to break the glaze on the piston would be enough.
