Servicing The Focal Plane Shutter Of A Speed Graphic 5x4

[Pete Askew]

As you will know, some time back I purchased a Speed Graphic (http://www.realphotographersforum.com/forum/threads/1947-speed-graphic.4140/). Its condition was pretty good and the shutter in the lens worked well (http://www.realphotographersforum.com/forum/threads/1947-speed-graphic-first-shots.4391/). However, the focal plane shutter was stiff and slow and was in no way useable. Having just purchased a second Aero Ekar , I thought it was about time to sort out the focal plane shutter so I could mount it on the Speed Graphic (there is no shutter in the Aero Ektar and no easy way to fit one). After some searching I found a site holding a copy of the service manual (http://www.southbristolviews.com - http://www.southbristolviews.com/pics/Graphic/manual-pdf/servicemanual.pdf) and so I downloaded a copy and read the relevant section. All was as clear as mud so, out came the screwdrivers!

I've posted this tutorial on the Real Photographers Blog here

 

[Julian de'Courcy]

You say not overly difficult? I am impressed. As you say as long as the shutter is consistent you can compensate. Looking forward to seeing the results Pete.

 

[Hamish Gill]

This is just the sort of post we need a blog for .... Hmmm

Very interesting Pete!

Can't wait to see the shots from the new Ektar! No joy getting the m42 mount off the old one then?

 

[Pete Askew]

Still haven't got round to that but the peening just needs to be drilled out. The that one is going on the Sinar. I came across one with a super buy-it-now price. Nice glass but the body looks like it was the only thing to have survived the crash! Nothing that a spot of crackleure paint won't sort out.

Hmm, a blog eh. There's a thought!

Thanks. Not for everyone I guess but it was an interesting thing to do. Took about 1.5 hours including finding and reading the manual etc.