Abstract: A compact hydraulic cylinder may include a pressure chamber and a reservoir in coaxial, in-line arrangement relative to one another. The pressure chamber and reservoir are separated from one another in use by a piston and hydraulic seal. The piston may be withdrawn to a position in which the pressure chamber and reservoir are in fluid communication through a channel formed in the wall of the cylinder, which may be used for bleeding the pressure chamber. The piston may include a actuator shaft that extends through the reservoir. A follower adjacent the distal end of the shaft seals the reservoir from the exterior of the cylinder.