A drive for use in the manufacture of cans comprises a hydraulically powered guide pod to which a hold down assembly is attached. The guide pod slides along a guide rod which is fixed in the bodymaker. Forward and rear hydraulic chambers are defined between the pod and the guide rod by means of bushings and a seal. Passage of fluid through ports to and from the chambers causes the pod and hold down assembly to move forwards and backwards. The length of the stroke can be set by the distance between the ports. A rotary valve is used to control the timing of the drive and control flow of hydraulic fluid, which is typically obtained from the bodymaker coolant supply.