Abstract: An actuator includes an inner tube, an outer tube disposed over the inner tube in a manner such that the tubes reciprocate with respect to one another. A removably operably disposed ball screw having a ball nut thereon extends through the tubes, the ball screw having an outer diameter which is less than an inner diameter of the tubes such that an annular space exists between the screw and the tubes. A brake assembly is operably disposed within outer tube and at least a part of said brake assembly, and said ball screw and said ball nut are removable from the tubes without causing damage thereto.