Abstract: Apparatus for separating sequential batches of overlapping sheets includes a conveyor of laterally spaced belts. Lift bars secured to tubes are mounted for vertical positioning above the belts to raise the sheets from the conveyor and remove the moving force. The lift bars includes spaced vacuum openings coupled to the tube, which is coupled to a vacuum source. The openings are spaced for alignment with the trailing portions of sheets moving through the conveyor. A piston in the tube selectively opens and closes the openings. The tubes are pivotally mounted at the downstream ends and the piston projects from the upstream end of the tube. A cam drive reciprocates the piston and simultaneously raises and lowers the tubes. The cam drive includes an inclined cam rod on which a motor-driven rack is slidably mounted. A link connects the rack to the outer end of the piston.