I've got a Speed Graphic which is wonderful, but the chrome side shutter release is so stiff I can't use a cable release on it to release the shutter. Any ideas that will help free it up would be very gratefully received.

Barrie

There is a Top RF Service manual available in pdf @ http://www.southbristolviews.com/. The body and servicing are the same for the side rf Pacemakers.
The position of the slide switch may be affecting the side release lever, check its position. If the side release llever is stiff with the slide switch in both the front and rear positions then put two to three drops of light weight machine oil on the rear edge of the side release and operate it a few times.

If the side shutter release is stiff only in the front position try one or two drops of light machine oil at the top of the cable on the front standard. Work the side release a few times then leave the camera standing in the normal working position for a couple of hours then turn the camera on its back for a couple or more hours.
When following either 45PSS's suggestion, mine or both be careful not to over do the oil or you may find your camera in a very messy state.

C. Henry