I've done that, but in order to actually verify that the piston isn't leaking by I need to put a weight load on the ram somehow. the way that pilot operated stop/check valve is mounted doesn't allow testing in both directions with an open vent on the return side. I can power it in and out all day long but without actually loading the cylinder I'm not verifying that the piston doesn't leak by. I'm waiting on fittings and gages so I can see if the pressure bleeds off a lot when I center the control valve at the end of the stroke each way. the lack of fittings & gages or means of loading the cylinder is keeping me from moving forward at this point.

I know a lot about a lot of things BUT I still have a lot to learn.
Life is what you make of it. So, why not make a working machine to make it easier.