Abstract: Apparatus and method providing a ground following capability for an unloading ramp on a receiver of a cotton harvester. At least one fluid cylinder is provided including at least one rod extendible for moving the ramp downwardly to an unloading position and retractable for raising the ramp. A valve apparatus is connected between a source of pressurized fluid and the at least one cylinder and is controllably operable by a control for directing pressurized fluid to the at least one cylinder for extending the at least one rod for moving the ramp to the unloading position. The valve apparatus is automatically operable responsive to exertion of a force against at least one of the rods in a direction for retracting the rod, for directing pressurized fluid from the at least one cylinder to allow the rod to be retracted by the force to thereby raise the ramp.