Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for providing hydraulic load compensated time delay in downhole well operations. The apparatus includes a piston stem enclosed by a piston housing. An axial force, acting either in the direction of stretch or in the direction of compression, causes a pressure buildup in one of two hydraulic chambers which are each filled with an incompressible liquid and which are mutually connected through one or more throttle orifices. A sideways floating, supported piston sleeve is arranged between the piston stem and the piston housing.