This invention relates to a feed device which automatically straightens sheets prior to their being fed.A nudge wheel feeds the paper into the apparatus against a registration gate thereby straightening the sheet.At the appropriate time, a solenoid actuated clutch initiates a mechanically sequenced series of events which raise a set of feed tires so as to pinch (hold and secure) the previously straightened sheet, lower the registration gate out of the paper path, and start the feed tires and allow the sheet to be fed.At a second appropriate time after the sheet has been fed, the solenoid clutch is de-energized. Stored energy in a spring is used to mechanically reverse the sequence, whereby the feed tires are lowered out of the paper path and the registration gate is raised up into the paper path, preparatory to the next sheet.