Abstract: An apparatus for selecting a consumable welding wire from a plurality of consumable welding wires. The apparatus has a base, and a drive wheel rotatably supported by the base for engaging a consumable welding wire. A plurality of pinch-roller arms is pivotally secured to the base, and a plurality of pinch rollers is rotatably secured to the plurality of pinch-roller arms. The apparatus also includes a plurality of spring assemblies supported by the base for biasing the plurality of pinch-roller arms. A plurality of pneumatic cylinder assemblies engage the base and the pinch-roller arms for moving the pinch-roller arms relative to the base. A method for selecting any one of a plurality of consumable welding wires comprising pivoting a pinch-roller assembly to cause a rotatable pinch roller to engage and hold a consumable welding wire in driving engagement with a rotatable drive wheel.