Abstract: This invention is a bi-directional hydraulic actuator comprising a piston assembly positioned within a housing. The piston assembly is configured to move linearly within the housing. A gland is operatively connected to the piston assembly. The gland is configured as a rigid longitudinally annular member with a first end, a second end, a sidewall and is open on the first end and substantially closed on the second end which forms an inside and an outside of the annular member. The gland is further configured with a lip extending from around the outside of the first end of the gland. A pressurizing fluid exerts pressure on the inside of the gland to move the piston assembly a first direction, then, a fluid exerts pressure on the outside of the gland and the lip of the gland to move the piston assembly opposite the first direction.