Abstract: A hydraulic motor either of the radial or axial piston type is used for swivelling a hanging load about an upright axis. The motor has a distributor for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid to the input and drain ducts of the motor. The motor further has hydraulic ducts extending from the stator to the rotor for transmitting fluid required for operation of the actuator of a gripping device or bucket. The distributor floats, so that radial and axial play as well as deformation of the rotor relative to the stator may be taken up without stress. At least some of the hydraulic ducts pass through the distributor, connections being made by suitable rotary transmissions and connecting points within the motor.