In an embodiment, a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media stores computer instructions executable by a processor and configured to increase a first signal pressure to a first actuating element of a directional control valve until the directional control valve is about to shift positions. The first signal pressure is greater than a second signal pressure to a second actuating element of the directional control valve by a signal pressure differential. The computer instructions are also configured to increase the first and second signal pressures equally while maintaining the signal pressure differential to cause a first pilot stage check valve and a second pilot stage check valve to shift positions, and, within a threshold time thereafter, increase the first signal pressure while maintaining the second signal pressure to increase the signal pressure differential to a value sufficient to cause the directional control valve to shift positions.
