Hydraulic Tool: Piston-like Movement

The Hydraulic Tool in Garry's Mod allows you to simulate piston-like movement, enabling the creation of extendable arms, moving platforms, and complex machinery. This tool is crucial for building functional contraptions that require linear motion and controlled extension or retraction.

The Hydraulic Tool works by connecting two points and controlling the distance between them. You can set a minimum and maximum length, and the tool will attempt to maintain this distance, effectively acting as a hydraulic cylinder. This is perfect for creating mechanical elements that need to push, pull, or extend.

How to Use the Hydraulic Tool:

Spawn the Tool: Find the Hydraulic Tool in the 'Tools' tab of the spawn menu.
First Attachment: Aim at the first prop or surface and press your primary action key (usually left-click). This will be the base of your piston.
Second Attachment: Aim at the second prop or surface and press your primary action key again. This will be the extending part.
Adjust Properties: Access the tool's menu (often by pressing 'E' while holding the tool) to configure:
- Min Length: The shortest the piston can retract.
- Max Length: The furthest the piston can extend.
- Speed: How quickly the piston extends or retracts.
- Force: The strength of the piston's push/pull.
- Toggle: Allows you to switch between extending and retracting modes.

Applications of the Hydraulic Tool:

Extendable Arms: Create robotic arms or mechanical limbs.
Moving Platforms: Build elevators or platforms that rise and fall.
Doors and Gates: Construct large, sliding doors or gates.
Machinery: Simulate pistons in engines, presses, or other industrial equipment.
Vehicles: Implement retractable landing gear or extending components.

When using the Hydraulic Tool, ensure that the attached props are properly welded or constrained to prevent them from separating unexpectedly. Experiment with different speed and force settings to achieve the desired mechanical behavior for your creations.