Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving a mold in a molding machine, such as a matchplate molding machine. A lock element, preferably but not necessarily having at least 2 pieces, is movably mounted within a platen opening of a platen and within a pallet opening of a pallet. A second piece of the lock element can be fixed or secured with respect to the pallet, for example, to fix a position of a drag flask with respect to the pallet. An indexing device can be used to handle or move at least 2 molds with respect to the molding machine.