Abstract: An escapement mechanism for driving a shaft about an axis in a line printer each time a solenoid is actuated. An armature in the solenoid moves along a second axis which is normal to the axis of rotation and intersects it. An integrally molded escapement arm is pivotally mounted to the armature and also to a frame for rotation about a third axis which is parallel to the axis of shaft rotation and is spaced from the second axis. A resilient spring on the escapement arm engages a ratchet wheel mounted on a shaft. When the solenoid is actuated, the armature withdraws the escapement arm and the spring. When the solenoid is de-energized, a return spring on the solenoid advances the armature so the drive member engages the ratchet wheel and rotates the shaft. A second ratchet wheel oppositely oriented with respect to the first engages a positioning member on the escapement arm thereby to orient properly the shaft.