Abstract: An improved method and apparatus is disclosed for advancing a rod or pipe through the ground using a compressive force. The invention includes the use of a displaceable tray supported within a frame assembly for carrying a rod or pipe segment. A driving mechanism is included which is supported within the assembly and parallel and adjacent the rod or pipe segment to be driven. Using a removeable end plate insertable within the tray, the rod or pipe segment may be sequentially advanced in a stepwise fashion with a minimal size driving mechanism and frame assembly. Using a jaw assembly mounted on an end of the tray, the rod may be sequentially withdrawn in a stepwise fashion also.