The present invention provides systems, methods, and apparatuses relating to improved conveying systems, and in particular to providing locomotion preferrably using a surface mounted drive mechanism for driving a drive chain. Generally, the conveying system of the present invention is designed to adapt to most manufacturing needs, for example, from furniture manufacturing and finishing to marine and automotive engines. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a conveying system, comprising: at least one load carrying unit having a tow pin assembly, the tow pin assembly further comprising a tow pin configured to link to and de-link from a conveyor tow chain, and a means for engaging and disengaging the tow pin; a conveyor track configured to house the conveyor tow chain; and a drive assembly configured to receive the tow chain and to provide locomotion to the conveyor tow chain, and further comprising at least one tensioning means for tensioning the conveyor tow chain.