A yarn tuft transfer system for a carpet manufacturing machine, including one or more mounting devices secured to a belt or chain. Each mounting device includes a functional link element having a mounting for a payload, first securing device rotatably mounted on the functional link element about a first axis for securing the functional link element onto the belt or chain at a first position, and second for securing the functional link element onto the belt or chain at a second position spaced from the first, the device being rotatable relative to the functional link element about a second axis. The first securing device is moveable relative to the second securing device along a line perpendicular to and intersecting the first and second axes. The system further utilizing a yarn tuft holder mounted on each payload mounting.