About that tick problem, All you need to do is after a game check yourself for ticks. Chances are if a tick does get on you, it will take several hours for them to actually bite you. then it will take some time for limes, IF they have it, to infect you. I have gone on many camping and survival trips and have found at least 20 ticks walking across me at once. Just picked them off and I was fine.
I would only get a new cylinder if you somehow become rich, or like you said, win the lottery. If you are looking for the cheapest piston you can find, leave the cylinder alone.