Abstract: An improved apparatus is provided for operating the sliding closure of a railroad hopper car in which the hopper has a discharge opening at its lower end. The sliding closure or gate has a pair of arms attached to and extending from the closure, a gear attached to each of the arms and an opening in at least one of the gears. The improved turning means for the gears includes an adapter for insertion in the opening in the gear, a holding means for the adapter, a worm gear mounted on the holding means and a worm mounted on a worm shaft for engaging the worm gear and a means for driving the worm shaft is provided. A housing is provided for the worm gear and adapter holding means and the turning means can be readily removed after use.The apparatus provides means for operating the closure without requiring manual force. The apparatus can be readily installed or removed and results in longer life for parts by reducing the frequency of replacement required.