Graflex.org

Adrian · Joined: 02 Jun 2004 Posts: 10 Location: Philadelphia, USA

So, I just received my "new" crown graphic....

And the shutter is definitely not ok. It opens for random amounts of time on any speed, and frequently sticks open. When it sticks, the coking lever stops about 1/3 of the way through it's travel. In this case if you pull it back a bit towards the cocked position, the shutter can then close.

Also, the T and B settings never stick, but they do give a very fast shutter speed. Also, i never hear the clockwork sounds that one would expect.

All in all, this does not seem to me like a sticky shutter. It seems like there is something more mechanically wrong.

Are there any resources for me to figure out how to fix this myself? If not, how much should I expect to pay? Or is a new shutter cheaper? It's a shame because otherwise the camera is in very nice shape.

Thanks in advance,
Adrian

t.r.sanford · Posted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 12:18 am Post subject:

You may well be correct, but the symptoms you describe could be caused by old dried gunk in the mechanism (which might be why you don't hear a clockwork sound).

I've typically paid about $85 in New York City to have "Supermatic" shutters cleaned, lubricated and adjusted, and I consider it money well spent, if you find someone to do it right. You'll get years of use out of it.

You might contact the S.K. Grimes organization and ask what they charge for a CLA.

Rangemaster · Posted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 1:23 am Post subject:

Sounds like a dirty shutter, the last time I had Grimes do one was before he passed away and they charged me $65.00 for the CLA, I have been assured they are still doing the same quality of work since he passed away, drop them a note with the particulars and I am sure they can help you out.

Dave

Adrian · Joined: 02 Jun 2004 Posts: 10 Location: Philadelphia, USA

Thanks,

It was just gummed up. I gave a little cleaning and exercise and all the speeds seem good now. I do realize that I should have it properly serviced now to prevent wear, but it's good to know that it's in working order otherwise.

Thanks also for the help last week identifiying the back. It was indeed a Graflok with an upside-down hood. I'm still wondering about that. It was nearly impossible to open and close until i turned it right side up.

Also, the graphic I used previously did not have a focuscope. This one does, and I have to say it's worse than useless. I'm happy to have it as a collector's item, but when you have a film holder in you can't get your eye close enough to use it, so it's much better to go without. Just a note for anyone who is looking for one.

Thanks,
-Adrian

Henry · Posted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 2:22 pm Post subject:

I never have a problem using the Kalart on my Century with roll holder, although it's true that you do have to scrunch up the one side of your face a tad. Hint: left eye works better. Now with the greater depth of a Speed I could envision a problem. Is your Crown a 4x5?

t.r.sanford · Posted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 2:35 pm Post subject:

About the only value of a "Focuscope" is to compel you to get your eye (either one!) centered with respect to the superimposed image delivered by the rangefinder. You really don't need it, but it can be a useful time-saver.

In my experience, "Focuscopes" do indeed work better with the shallow-bodied "Century" (and, I suppose, "Crown") than with the "Speeds" -- although, even with those, the optical guidance can save a second or so.

The unadorned black brass tubes often supplied with Kalart rangefinders seem to me to work just as well, or perhaps a little better.

Henry · Posted: Wed Jun 09, 2004 12:22 am Post subject:

Thanks for another useful tip, t.r. Mmm, a simple brass tube, eh? Sounds like a trip to the hobby shop is in order.....