having recently acquired a speed graphic with completely inoperative focal plane shutter - is it possible to use with this locked open? will film be fogged when loading?; the back appears to be "sprung" therefore is I guess the graphic back; can anyone explain the options for loading film with this back? I am a bit confused as to whether it is possible to use a polaroid back etc; any comments welcome

If you put the speed selector on "o" then push the shutter release on the front and the shutter opens then yes you can use it that way. Otherwise Im not sure what is wrong but if you wanted to completely scrap the focal plane shutter its cloth and could be cut out Im sure. Is the back messed up? You say it is "sprung" will it hold a filmholder to the body securley enough to prevent light leaks?

See this page and you can read a brief description of the different backs. http://www.graflex.org/speed-graphic/features.html#
You should be able to use standard double sided holders, as well as Polaroid and Calumet 120 roll backs. The Polaroid 545 series has the same dimensions as a standard film holder, but be careful with them as a Spring back will not support the extra weight as well as the later Grafloc with slider locks. You'll want to hold the focusing panel firmly against the film holder by squeasing against the camera when changing film, or inserting pulling dark slides etc...to prevent leaks, then should be ok, not a big deal.
What seem worng with your FPS? I just fixed one that simply needed the springs cleaned up and lubed. When these cameras sit for a long time things get gummed up, and curtains rot, but all easily fixed kind of thing. Very simple device for the mechancally inclined. On the other hand, if your front leaf shutter works, you are ready to roll...maybe. Focal shutter will not cause any light leak problems whatsoever as it is inside the camera body, but you will have to make sure it is open all the way so you don't accidently crop your image (see above post).
regards,
Stephen

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: troublemaker on 2005-04-30 15:55 ]</font>