Abstract: In this fluid powered positioning system, a sliding assembly includes a slide plate that moves linearly with respect to a frame. A plurality of "working" linear cylinder actuators are mounted to the frame. Each includes a piston and a rod which extends through an opening in the slide plate and terminates at a stop flange. A set of adjustable stop members are mounted to the frame and each is positioned to limit the travel of a respective actuator rod. Appropriate control means applies to a selectable one of the actuators a pressurized fluid, that causes the piston and rod to be moved in a first direction until it is stopped by the associated stop member. In this movement, the stop flange can pull the slide plate to the new location. A "balance" linear actuator cylinder includes a ram that exerts a continuous force in the opposite direction against the slide plate. This "balance" actuator damps and effectively prevents overshoot of the slide plate as it is positioned to each new location.