Abstract: A dual-mode fluid powered actuator includes a cylinder housing having a cylinder axis, a first end and a second end spaced axially apart from the first end, and an inner surface extending between the first and second ends. A first fluid port is provided adjacent the first end of the cylinder housing and a second fluid port is provided adjacent the second end of the cylinder housing. A piston assembly is in the cylinder housing, the piston assembly slidable between the first and second ports. The piston assembly includes a first piston member and a second piston member, the first and second piston members translatable relative to each other between an engaged position in which the piston assembly isolates the first fluid port from the second fluid port, and a disengaged position in which the first and second fluid ports are in fluid communication with each other through the piston assembly.