I have a problem with the shutter release button on my Crown Graphic. Previously it has been lovely and smooth - a pleasure to use! I sometimes use it handheld with a 135mm lens with rangefinder focusing. But now, although it is usable, it is very stiff and doesn't spring back. The problem is with the shutter release itself, not the cable. Am I right in assuming that you cannot get to the workings of the shutter button without removing the leather covering around it?
I have tried oiling it as best I can but it didn't really help much.
Any suggestions?

Cheers
Simon

Simon,

Did you remove the flash brackets from the side of the camera? I experienced exactly the same phenomenon when I removed the flash bracket from my Crown. Once I put the brackets back onto the camera, the trigger worked just fine again and has continued to do so ever since. Maybe the bracket and screws keep firm pressure on the side wall allowing smooth operation of the trigger?

The service manual to the Speed is available on my site in PDF format if you'd like to see a blow-up of the construction and parts. The Crown would be essentially the same, minus the rear FP shutter. See:
http://www.southbristolviews.com
under Graflex manuals.

Did you maybe tighten any screws? I had the same problem with my speed after a screw tightening (or replacement? It was a while ago).

Seems that one of the screws is _very_ close to the release tab on the inside. If it extends too far into the case, it hits the button and either stops it from working, or makes it rough.

As I remember, the release comes off with the removal of the two screws on the side. No leather has to be removed. But my memory isn't as good as it used to be...

That's it! I had removed the flash bracket. I replaced the screws as I wanted it to look nice - they must press on the release when screwed all the way in.

Many thanks
Simon