Tractor Repair: replacing lift cylinder seals, cylinder seals, piston rod

Question
I have a1959 Ford 871 that we had an older Ford manure bucket put on. One of the lift cylinders has blown a seal, and the estimates i have received for rebuilding it have all been over $500 US per cylinder.
The cylinders have threaded caps, and I am thinking about attempting it myself, but have not done something like this before. Are there special tools or equipment required? Just how hard is it to rebuild an older cylinder like this?

Answer
Chris there are probably some special tools but in all the cylinders I have overhauled I only used my commonsense and brutt force the main thing to look for is the piston rod if it has rust on it or it is bent or if the inside of the barrel for wear or damage and all should work out ok.
Because this can damage the new seal causing a premature failure.
                  Regards Danny Last