Don't know how to ask/don't know what I want.

From what I think I know, the sudden and jerky release could be cured by adjusting the orfice size and the angles of the mating surfaces in the valve, kinda like the idle adjust screw and seat in a carburetor. I'm sure the makers do not see any profit in making modifications to products they're already selling. Smooth, gradual and easy release to lower the load doesn't seem like much of a "value adding" feature either. Could be an interesting project for a machinist, but beyond my skills and tools.

But I think the posters who have mentioned air/hydraulic and electric/hydraulic setups are close to what I think is needed to position a load up or down (or down and back up again). Anyone have thoughts about where I might find more knowledge in this area??

I appreciate any input! Thanks!!

BC