A system and method for releasably coupling an extendable element to an actuator. Such a system may include an actuator housing with a specially adapted integral connecting end having a cavity therein. An extendable element may extend into the cavity through an opening in the connecting end of the housing and be coupled to a motive element of the actuator by a rotatable collar that resides in the cavity. A cover plate forms a part of the actuator housing connecting end. The cover plate compliments the integral portion of the connecting end and, in conjunction therewith, encloses the collar and the coupled portion of the extendable element. A substantially hollow end cap is passed over the extendable element and releasably attached to the actuator housing to enclose the distal connecting end thereof. In some embodiments, the coupled extendable element may reciprocate within an outer tube that is also releasably attached to the actuator housing.