Abstract: A cushion assembly includes a lower end wall which is at least partially enclosed by a tubular cylindrical outer wall. An upper end wall is also partially enclosed by the outer wall. A tubular cylindrical inner wall extends between recesses in the lower end wall and the upper end wall. A piston is disposed within the inner wall and is movable along the inner wall toward the upper end wall under the influence of gas pressure. The piston is movable along the inner wall toward the lower end wall of the influence of force applied against the piston during operation of a press. A passage is formed between an end portion of the inner wall and the lower end wall to conduct a flow of lubrication liquid and gas to lubricate the piston.