1077 lift valve oil leak

[momstractors 0]

I have a 1077 (hybrid) that was leaking profusely from the lift valve. I took it apart and found seals with twine wrapped around them, is this right?

I rummaged through my junk stuff and came up with a couple of fat 0-rings that fit the slots in the shaft perfectly and the leak stopped. Used it for the first time yesterday in the snow and there are no leaks but the lever is so stiff that it's hard to use.

I'm assuming that the ATF is attacking the O-rings, causing them to swell. Does anyone have a source for new seals in the lift valve? Thanks in advance, Doug