Abstract: An improved can body maker apparatus has a ram system that incorporates a ram guidance mechanical linkage that supports the linear motion of the ram and translates non linear circular motion of the crank into the linear motion of the ram.

Abstract: An improved can body maker apparatus has a drive system for reciprocating a ram. The drive system includes a crank having a first half and a second half, both being adapted for rotational movement about a first axis in the can body maker apparatus. A brake disk is fixedly mounted on the crank first half. A crank arm is mounted on the crank second half. The brake disk and the crank arm define therebetween a second axis. A connecting rod is supported for rotational movement about the second axis. The connecting rod is adapted for mechanical communication with the body maker ram. The brake disk and the crank arm define in combination at least one additional second axis, wherein the rotation of the crank arm about the additional second axis changes the throw of the connecting rod for each revolution of the drive system crank.