Abstract: A shop press that includes a fixed-height table capable of supporting a workpiece. A ram assembly is mounted for vertical movement over the table. The ram assembly carries a fluid power head, and is arranged to permit the head to be moved horizontally so as to position the head at any desired location relative to the device table and a workpiece carried thereon. A system for vertically moving the ram assembly includes a cable arrangement connected between dual drums on the table and pulleys journaled on ram assembly legs. As the cable is wound upon or let off the drums, the ram assembly is moved upwardly or downwardly. A slip clutch and brake assembly permits the ram assembly to be moved upwardly without the interference of frictional force, but a frictional drag brake action is applied as the ram is moved downwardly to control such downward movement.