Linear rod pump operating method

A method for extending the operating life of a hydrocarbon well having a walking beam apparatus operatively connected thereto for imparting reciprocating substantially vertical motion to a rod of a sucker-rod pump having a pump stroke disposed in the well, the method comprising:

• disconnecting the rod from the walking beam apparatus, and operatively connecting the rod to a linear rod pumping apparatus including a linear mechanical actuator arrangement and a reversible motor;
• operating the linear rod pumping apparatus at a slower stroke rate than the stroke rate of the walking beam pump prior to its replacement by the linear rod pump;
• wherein the linear mechanical actuator arrangement, has a substantially vertically movable member attached to the rod of the sucker-rod pump for imparting and controlling vertical motion of the rod of the sucker-rod pump;
• and
• the reversible motor has a reversibly rotatable element thereof operatively connected to the substantially vertically movable member of the linear mechanical actuator arrangement in a manner establishing a fixed relationship between the rotational position of the motor and the pump stroke.