an improved rotary joint construction is produced by eliminating the external drive mechanism used for installing and removing such joints . an internal drive mechanism is provided within the bearing area of the stem which does not alter rated flow volume and which does not add to the length of the stem . the internal drive mechanism comprises a socket in the end of the stem which allows the joint to be installed or removed without using special tools . a more compact shorter joint can be produced without reducing the distance between the seals and without reduced rated flow volume and without reducing the contact area of the between the stem and barrel . alternately , a joint with substantially increased bearing contact area and a longer barrel can be produced without increasing the stem installation clearance height and without reducing the interseal spacing flow passage geometry and subsequent rated flow volume . the longer bearing surface and a longer barrel provides longer life by reducing the maximum possible gap in the seal area as a result of misalignment caused by side loading of the barrel and reduces wear . the increased length of the bearings and barrel permit a substantial increase in operating pressure without undesirably extruding the seals .