The rod and piston are very strong and are likely fine - but a part failure that can cause the hitch to drop is leaking of the o-ring 04810-00750 on the piston. The part is only $6 but access to it requires lifting off the 3-point hitch assembly - a few hours of labor so its spendy at a dealer's shop.
The WSM shows what to disconnect, etc. With the fenders & platform taken off the three-point assembly unbolts from the top of the differential housing. The piston is on the bottom side. Sounds like a big deal but is pretty basic, no special tools or methods. Good to have a helper for lifting. Best luck - Dick B.
View attachment 78807
