An automatic transfer machine having a plurality of machining units on a common table top with tool carriers above and a common drive below the table top connected through openings in the table top by distributor gears connecting the common drive with intermediate shafts, which shafts are arranged at approximately at right angles relative to the plane of the table top. Universal joint shafts which are telescopically extensible extend through each of the table top openings connecting intermediate shafts from below the table top to step down gears and control elements above the table top.