I just did this exact mod, with a couple differences. I used the 1/2" pipe. The external diameter is 3/4" and it slides right inside the handle tubing with no issues. It's smaller than the handle mount, but with the tightening screws it is not a problem. I used 7" pieces for the handle side. All-in-all, it costs $10 and takes 2 minutes.

This one would work without the need to grind anything. http://www.amazon.com/Valley-Forge-Flag-Multi-Position-Aluminum/dp/B0007KP9SG/ref=pd_sim_86_3 The problem again is that you need four, about $40.

Slow leak for me too. This said, I use the lock to prevent it from going too low.

Personally, I used the 1" pipe which happens to be smaller than the hole in the cart. I had to tighten the bolt a bit. I used a long nipple that fits right in the handlebar, and I added two U-bolts to avoid having the long nipple slide out of the handlebar. There was no grinding needed. I had to take the wire out of the guides that are attached to the handlebar. I'll add a pic later.

Correction, my pipe is 3/4" and slides right inside the handle bar which is 1".

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My HF lift table no longer smoothly goes down. I have to press the release handle every 2 or so seconds so it incrementally lowers 1/2" at a time. Anyone else has this problem? Any fix? The cable it ok and pressing the release at the cylinder does not help.

It's suppposed to go down slowly (maybe), but smoothly. And when there is no load, it goes down fast.

I am still trying to figure out why my table goes down fine with no load but not under load.
Does anyone know if the release valve is meant to release less hydraulic fluid under load?
I'm thinking that if it's the case maybe the problem is there. Chances are I'll be monkeying with the release valve soon.

Slightly different take. My lift table wasn't really working anymore so I decided to give the motorcycle jack a try. It costs $89 at harbor freight. I changed the front wheels. It is actually working well.

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I like this solution. What's the size of the end cap you used?

No problem whatsoever. The trick is more in the handle setup. I had to add some tubing to clear the lower front cabinet lip. Balance could be slightly increased by using a longer bolt in the back with washers. But not by a huge amount because of the cabinet legs clearance. It works well overall.

Bend or cut the metal loop.

On mine it was not closed. An angle grinder will do the trick if it is closed.