Abstract: An apparatus for contacting and applying a force to opposite sides of a workpiece, such as a resistance welding device adapted for use on an automated assembly line. The apparatus is configured to be extremely rigid to ensure accurate movement and positioning of a pair of contacts with respect to a workpiece. The apparatus includes a frame member supported by a base with first and second shafts that are secured to the frame member and slidably supported by the base. The second shaft prevents rotation of the frame member about the first shaft during operation of the apparatus. The frame member carries one of the contacts, and is biased away from the workpiece and toward a second position nearer the workpiece. An extendable member and a link are both pivotably mounted to the frame member, and support an anvil carrying the remaining contact. The link is engaged with the base when the link is in a first rotational position, at which point the second contact is held away from the workpiece by the anvil.