An apparatus for positioning magnetically coded substrate relative to a read head that optimally positions the substrate against the read head. A beam arm is sized and formed to transmit a force to a contact head located at a first end of the beam arm. The contact head is formed by a recessed wedge defined by a lead-in and lead-out, both making contact with the substrate, transmitting a force at first location and second location of substrate, thereby flexing the substrate about the read head. The contact head maintains the position of the substrate in the active reading area of the read head, thus maximizing reading capability. Moreover, the apparatus is formed from a material entirely non-magnetic, having a low coefficient of friction, flexibility and a good resistance to wear.