Abstract: Apparatus is described for coupling and uncoupling pipe sections at the top or head of a well casing. The apparatus comprises (a) a base adapted to support a platform over a well head, the platform having an opening therein, (b) a plurality of self-engaging clamps supported on the platform around said opening, the clamps being adapted to permit upward movement of pipe sections through said opening and being further adapted to prevent downward movement of pipe sections and rotational movement of a pipe coupling, (c) drive gear retaining means, above said base and platform, said retaining means being supported in such a manner that axial movement with respect to the platform is restricted while vertical movement is permitted, (d) drive gear means aligned over said opening in the platform and supported by the retaining means, said gear means being adapted to grip a pipe section and turn it into or out of a pipe coupling, and (e) power means for turning said drive gear means.