By applying the velocity instant center concept and vector loop equations, for a varying-velocity translating cam mechanism, the cam profile, the pressure angle, the radius of curvature of the cam profile and the motion program of the follower can be derived. Then the motion program of the return stroke of the follower can be obtained by means of the application of kinematic coefficients. According to the cam profile geometry of each region, the varying-velocity translating cam mechanism has four different equivalent linkages. Accordingly employing the equivalent linkage method, the kinematic errors of the follower caused by the deviation in each design parameter of the mechanism can be derived. If every design parameter of the mechanism has been specified, choosing a motion program that has a lower velocity value may reduce the mechanical error of the follower output. Additionally, the transmission effect can be improved by either decreasing the length of the crank or increasing the length of the coupler link. According to the sensitive analysis, the variation of each design parameter and that of the cam profile dimension has almost the same effect on the output motion error, and thus their tolerances are nearly equal in importance. For reference of choosing a motor, the relation between the input torque and the press force is also derived.