an agricultural implement has a depth control system in which a position sensor directly measures linear translation of a hydraulic cylinder that lifts and lowers the implement frame to set and adjust the depth of the implement frame . the position sensor may be positioned adjacent to or integrally formed with the hydraulic cylinder , and provides a voltage to a controller remote from the implement . the controller automatically adjusts the flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the hydraulic cylinder to maintain the depth of the implement frame at an operator - selected level .