Abstract: A pressure actuator for a fluid activated braking system which can be utilized in anti-lock (ABS) or traction control (TC) systems is provided. In a preferred embodiment the pressure actuator has a piston threadably associated with the drive screw which has a flange. Encircling the drive screw and setting on a support are bevel washers. Upon downward movement of a piston, a nut associated with the piston is first cushioned by compressing the bevel washers wherein at a later point the bevel washers make contact with the flange of the drive screw and by providing frictional engagement therewith provide torsional restraint of the drive screw which also adds to the dampening of the downward movement of the nut and the associated piston. Therefore, the total amount of bevel washers needed for cushioning the downward movement of the nut is minimized and the overall length of the pressure actuator can be held at a minimum dimension.