Abstract: A relatively simple pile driver includes a tubular holder with a closed top end and an open bottom end for receiving a pile; a tubular hammer with a closed bottom end and an open top end, the hammer containing lead and being mounted on the holder; four guide rods extending through large plates closing the top end of the holder and the bottom end of the hammer permitting controlled vertical movement of the hammer above the holder, the guide rods extending upwardly to a positioning plate above the hammer; a pair of cables extending upwardly from the plate closing the top end of the holder and through slots in the positioning plate to a bar, which is connected to a crane or other lifting apparatus by another cable for positioning the pile drive; and a pair of hydraulic cylinders extending upwardly from a pair of brackets on the bottom end of the holder, with piston rods extending upwardly from the open top ends of the cylinders to brackets on the hammer above the holder, whereby, the hammer can be raised and, wh