Abstract: A system for use in a press machine includes a drive assembly in the form of a pinion gear that selectively engages the flywheel to enable operative driving rotation of the pinion gear by the flywheel. A load system in the form of a hydraulic pump is arranged in operative driving relationship with the pinion gear. Accordingly, rotational energy withdrawn from the flywheel becomes available for use in driving the hydraulic pump, which is preferably arranged in fluid communication with the press machine to supply a flow of oil for lubrication purposes. An adjustment assembly is arranged to controllably reversibly displace the pinion gear to effect its selective engagement with the flywheel. The pinion gear is provided with a geared peripheral surface for intermeshing engagement with the flywheel at a geared periphery thereof. The system may also be operated in reverse to drive the flywheel.