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Supermatic Woes
Graflex.org Forum Index -> Speed Graphic Help
AuthorMessage
CharlesH.
Joined: 22 Oct 2011
Posts: 7
PostPosted: Sun Oct 23, 2011 3:23 am   Post subject: Supermatic Woes

Hello folks, I just acquired an anniversary Speed Graphic (first time I shoot 4x5), and while it's in decent working condition, there's a thing or two that needs some servicing.

My graphic came with a No2 Supermatic shutter and while it does fire and the speeds seem to be correct, I noticed that..
- The release lever sometimes gets stuck, especially with B and T
- the 1 second speed sticks open
- the self timer doesn't work well, I have to push the lever along
- and the press focus button does nothing

Could it be that parts just need to be oiled a bit? Or is some serious disassembly required? Any help's appreciated.
45PSS
Joined: 28 Sep 2001
Posts: 4081
PostPosted: Sun Oct 23, 2011 4:32 am

Look at these shutter operation guides and tell us which shutter your have
http://cameraeccentric.com/html/info/graflex_11.html
http://cameraeccentric.com/html/info/graflex_12.html
Graphic/Kodak Supermatic/Flash Supermatic/Supermatic X
Graphex/Raphex Synchromatic something or the other.

The problem description suggest your shutter needs a CLA. CLA runs $65 to $125 depending on where you have it serviced.
CharlesH.
Joined: 22 Oct 2011
Posts: 7
PostPosted: Sun Oct 23, 2011 7:12 pm

My shutter is a No.2 Kodak Supermatic, with no flash sync from about 1941. I just found out that I wasn't using the press focus correctly, so that one's ok. Now I only have issues with things sticking in place.
45PSS
Joined: 28 Sep 2001
Posts: 4081
PostPosted: Sun Oct 23, 2011 7:25 pm

The Supermatic is a moderate difficulty shutter to service. Service manuals are available from several online manual sources for around $20. You need good skills working with small screws and parts to service shutters.

Take a look at http://graflex.org/helpboard/viewtopic.php?t=6103 to get an idea of what is involved. The shutter pictured is a little more complex than a Supermatic.

I left a PM about servicing your shutter.
CharlesH.
Joined: 22 Oct 2011
Posts: 7
PostPosted: Tue Oct 25, 2011 3:34 am

Hm, think I'll get myself a manual later on. I've done camera repairs before and I'd like to tackle this one. Thanks.
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