The Ezee-lift was designed with similar criteria to yours, but as a no fuss permanent installation with no assembly needed to move the tire and no parts to carry. It also instals without any drilling, which I mostly did, but not completely. George could put the Ezee on in about 20 minutes IIRC.
If I had used an actuator, it would have just been in place of the cylinder, to keep it all out of the way. A 12v winch would also work well and probably be easier and cost less.
Everyone has different requirements and desires in stuff, so lots of different ideas. There are many that are happy with doorspring setups that pretty much scare me a whole bunch.
We are located in the Minneapolis area, and we welcome folks coming by to say hello and swap van stories and compare tweaks (of which we have many).
