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Here are a couple of other things to consider, besides trashing the jack:
1) Go to the local auto parts store and buy a bottle of hydraulic jack oil. When you want to use the jack, add some oil. Better buy some rags to wipe up the oil that leaks out, too. I have used jacks like this, sometimes for years - but you have to be careful. I always put jack stands under a car or trailer, after it's jacked up. This is a must-do step if you use a jack that leaks, because it will let the load down - the worse the leak, the faster the jack lets down.
2) This is probably the preferred solution - check the yellow pages for a small repair shop that works on hydraulic jacks. The problem you describe is almost always a leaking seal, and urusally not a big deal to fix for a place that knows jacks and has a supply of seals on hand. My experience is the cylinders seem to last a lot better after they've been repaired, than they do when they are new.
3) The last resort - take it to a flea market or garage sale, and get $20 (or whatever) for it - somebody will want a little-used jack like that. It will be good again after the repair.
But use extreme caution if you must use it while its still leaking.
Good Luck!
Bob
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