Abstract: A solenoid actuator having a coil at least partially surrounding an axis, and an armature sleeve extending at least partially through the coil. The armature sleeve includes a longitudinally extending wall that extends generally parallel to the axis, and an end portion that extends inwardly at an end of the longitudinally extending wall. An armature is slidably supported in the armature sleeve for movement along the axis between at least first and second actuation positions. The armature has an armature body with an outer longitudinal surface facing the longitudinally extending wall and an end surface facing the end portion of the armature sleeve. The longitudinally extending wall has a sliding fit with the outer longitudinal surface of the armature. An oil reservoir space is formed on the armature in a region of an intersection between the outer longitudinal surface and the end surface of the armature.