Abstract: A hydraulic system that includes an actuator, a pump, a servo-motor, and (optionally) an actuator position sensor, an actuator hydraulic pressure sensor, a comparator, a servo-valve, and a hydraulic fluid filter. The pump communicates with the actuator and provides hydraulic fluid to the actuator to control it. Also, the pump includes a hydraulic fluid inlet, outlet, and a bypass path from the outlet to the inlet. The bypass path allows a portion of the hydraulic fluid to bypass the pump. In response to a signal to control the actuator, the servo-motor (which is operatively coupled to the pump) drives the pump. As a result of the bypass path, the servo-motor is able to run continuously thereby avoiding the on/off hysteresis of the pump. Methods of positioning hydraulic actuators are also provided.