Abstract: Tapered ears of corn are moved one-at-a-time lengthwise into engagement first with a feeler-positioner and then with a feeler, and if the small end of an ear is forward, the feeler engages only the periphery of the ear and is moved slowly, while if the larger, butt end is first, the feeler engages the end or corner portion and is moved much more rapidly. This higher velocity of the feeler is sensed by an electro magnetic velocity transducer, and a pair of discs are actuated to grip the ear and turn it end-for-end. In one embodiment, the feeler-positioner is a pair of wheels which engage each ear and lift the feeler in accordance with the diameter and taper of that ear. In an alternate embodiment, the feeler-positioner is in the form of a plate which engages the ear and lifts the feeler in accordance with the diameter and taper of the ear.