Could some one fill me in on the difference between the Graflex No. 2 and No. 3 solenoids (flash synchronizer solenoids).

I see both kinds sometimes noted as available on eBay.

Thanks.

It's my understanding those numbers reflect the optimum number of batteries suggested to operate that solenoid. For instance, the #3 solenoid should be pared with a long, 3-cell battery case.

In actual practice, I don't think it makes any difference at all.

Hi, Alec,

Thanks.

Actually, I won't probably even be energizing it/them.

Graflex changed their definition after lens sync became the norm. The number 2 was used on most No 2 size shutters (Supermatics and Graphex's) and the No 3 was used on the No 3 Supermatic.

This was when the solenoid was used only to trip the shutter not to sync it.

Hi, Les,

Quote:

On 2006-08-26 17:11, Les wrote: Graflex changed their definition after lens sync became the norm. The number 2 was used on most No 2 size shutters (Supermatics and Graphex's) and the No 3 was used on the No 3 Supermatic. This was when the solenoid was used only to trip the shutter not to sync it.

1. Do you mean that the solenoid was just used to allow the shutter to be tripped from the button on the flash, while any flash sync came from the sync contact on the shutter?

2. Was there still the implication that the No. 3 should be energized by 4.5 V (3 cells)?

3. Are the two physically interchangeable (that is, will both fit in the same "feet")?

Thanks.

Best regards,

Doug

Yep Yep and yep.

The No 2 can be triggered by 4.5 volts but they claim that it would need adjusting as it wouldn't sync normally. That said I have an original Anny with a 3 cell and a No 2 solenoid and it syncs fine.

Once shutter sync came around, the guys missed the rear button trip, fumbling around upfront leads to photos of thumbs. So they came up with the solenoid for trip only.

They even made a Pacemaker that had a hotshoe with a wire nestled under the bellows to the sync post. and another wire from the solenoid to the red button on the top RF. With this rig you could set up a BC Graflash on the hotshoe and trip it with the solenoid from the red button on the handle side. Later they incorporated this idea into the Super Speed, only with more powervul 22.5v

Hi, Les,

Interesting. Thanks so much.

Best regards,

Doug