Abstract: A pair of chains are secured in spaced relationship to an endless conveyor from which they depend for controlling the closing and opening of a slip loop defined by one of the chains. A flap of hide is retained in the slip loop during and after a hide pulling operation until the pulled hide has been fully elevated to a predetermined position, at which time it is released and dropped at a location adjacent but spaced from the locus of the hide-pulling operation. The closing and opening of the slip loop is a function of the relationship of the connection of the chains with the endless conveyor as it changes direction during its travel along a predetermined path.