The machine is operated by hydraulic transmission of load from the test piece to a load indicator. Load is applied by a hydrostatically lubricated ram. Main cylinder pressure is transmitted to the cylinder of the pendulum dynamometer system. The load transmitted to the cylinder of the dynamometer is transferred through a lever system to a pendulum. Displacement of the pendulum actuates the rack and pinion mechanism which operates the load indicator pointer and recorder unit. The deflection of the pendulum represents the true load applied on the test-piece.