A twistlock operator for a twistlock mechanism has a drive mechanism with a fixed axis and an angularly displaceable twistlock having a pivot axis normally positioned along the fixed axis. A first actuator is drivingly connected to the drive mechanism for thereby permitting rotation of the first actuator and a second actuator is connected to the twistlock. Each of the actuators is generally rectangularly shaped and each has arcuate side bearing surfaces and the bearing surfaces have substantially equal radii of curvature. A tube is pivotally connected to each of the actuators for drivingly connecting the actuators and thereby causing cooperative rotation of the actuators. The tube maintains driving connection between the actuators even when the twistlock pivots and thereby displaces the pivot axis away from the fixed axis.