Graflex.org Forum Index Graflex.org
Get help with your Graflex questions here
 
 FAQFAQ   SearchSearch   MemberlistMemberlist   UsergroupsUsergroups   RegisterRegister 
 ProfileProfile   Log in to check your private messagesLog in to check your private messages   Log inLog in 

New to Graflex: need help

 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Graflex.org Forum Index -> Graflex.org Site Discussion
View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
Bergren



Joined: 17 Aug 2019
Posts: 1
Location: Maryland

PostPosted: Sat Aug 17, 2019 5:52 pm    Post subject: New to Graflex: need help Reply with quote

Hi everyone!

I recently received a Graflex Speed Graphic from my stepfather, which he had been keeping in the attic for decades. He says the camera likely hasn't been used much since the 60's or 70's. Pictures of the camera can be found here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Jk4oMRYF3YasGWbx8

The camera seems to be in good(ish) condition, but there seems to be a few problems:
1: focal shutter seems to be extremely slow/ inaccurate
2: switch to change shutters won't flick smoothly, and is extremely difficult/ inconsistent to operate.
3: lens seems to have difficulty sliding down the track
4: wheels to focus are fairly stiff, and are hard to operate.

Can anyone identify/ date the camera based on the pictures?

Does anyone know of a technician in the DC/ Baltimore area that would be able to repair one of these? What should I expect to pay for these (hopefully) simple repairs? Any tips on operation/ maintenance?

Thanks!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
45PSS



Joined: 28 Sep 2001
Posts: 4081
Location: Mid Peninsula, Ca.

PostPosted: Sat Aug 17, 2019 7:19 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Your very early 1955 Pacemaker Speed Graphic is near the middle of a order for 3000 cameras listed 12/1/1954 and was likely built in February or March 1955.
A copy of the factory service manual is available here:
http://www.southbristolviews.com/pics/Graphic/manual-pdf/servicemanual.pdf
The user manual is available here:
http://www.southbristolviews.com/pics/Graphic/manual-pdf/TRFPacemaker.pdf
1. shutter needs a CLA but exercising it by operating it many times may improve its operation, same goes for the Graphex shutter the lens is mounted in.
The Graphex shutter repair manual is available here:
http://www.southbristolviews.com/pics/Graphic/manual-pdf/GraphexShutterService.pdf
2. Push in on the switch to change from front to rear shutter. A safety to prevent accidental switching.
3. Clean the rails with 90% Isopropyl Alcohol.
4. Check that focus lock is not set, CLA focus pinon.

Further questions can be addressed in the Speed Graphic Help section.
_________________
The best camera ever made is the one that YOU enjoy using and produces the image quality that satifies YOU.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Visit poster's website
Display posts from previous:   
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Graflex.org Forum Index -> Graflex.org Site Discussion All times are GMT
Page 1 of 1

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum


Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group