Many thanks for all the replies guys, they have been really usefull, i love having such a great source of info.

:thumbsup:
I had a real stroke of luck on sunday, i stumbled across a double acting ram on ebay, (i've been looking for months without success)
It had only been on there for a few hours, i sent the guy a message, it turned out to be the exact lenght closed and open , the right cylinder and rod mounts also of my old item.
struck a deal with him of ebay for cash , $10.00 , bargain & done deal.

:thumbsup:
it arrived today and its in perfect condition and better still, its perfect for my blade, just need to colour co-ordinate it......Orange off course.
i'll stick some pics up of the whole thing fitted etc shortly.
I love it when a plan comes together...

thanks again
rob:thumbsup: