Abstract: A web splicer consists of framework which supports a pair of vertical rails each having a pair of tracks. The rails are spaced horizontally along a center line. One of the rails moves vertically. Travelling up and down the tracks formed into the rails are chucks in bearing support blocks. Motor drives rotate the chucks after they are engaged with a roll of web. A dancer roller and splicing head are of customary construction. Particularly, the framework and associated drives raises at least one of the rails so that it may be raised and lowered, while constraining the rail to move vertically and at a constant distance from the opposite rail. Each rail guides a pair of bearing support blocks, one on each of its tracks, which can independently travel the vertical length of the rail.