An electro-hydraulic control unit for a vehicle brake system includes a hydraulic control unit including an HCU block defining a motor bore containing an electric motor and an eccentric chamber containing a rotating eccentric driven by the electric motor. The HCU block also defines a pump bore containing a piston pump including a piston rod having a generally cylindrical shape with a smooth exterior surface extending substantially its entire length. An end cap is press fit around an end of the piston rod and includes a flange portion extending annularly outwardly for engaging a return spring. A piston guide includes a tubular portion guiding the piston rod and a shoulder for engaging the return spring. A throat of the piston guide holds a gland seal surrounding the piston rod. An outlet valve housing includes a tubular protrusion extending into the throat of the piston guide to hold the gland seal.