Graflex.org

[bappel]

Thank you for adding me.
I came across a tired Graflex XL in a box of very poorly stored cameras, and have a couple issues getting it funtional again.
The focus ring was basically frozen. After taking it apart and cleaning the heck out of everything. the metal focus rings turn smoothly.
But, as soon as I reinstall the plastic ring, it gets tight again, even before putting the three screws in that hold the ring in place.
The only thing I can come up with is that after all these years the plastic ring is deformed enough where it puts pressure on the metal ring binding it up.
I am very tempted to take some very fine sandpaper and cleaning up the inside of it where it rides on the metal ring.
Big mistake?
Also, one of the screws that nount the handle are sheared off in the body. Does anyone know what size screws they are? Any ides of how to get the old one out?
Its really a pretty cool camera, and I would love to resurect from the junk pile, it seems a shame for it to have been treated so poorly.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[45PSS]

That plastic ring is likely Nylon. A light polishing of it with 800 to 1200 grit sandpaper may be needed.

This site does not host photos. Take a picture of the broken screw in the body, upload it to a image hosting site then post the link to the photo here. Do not use the Img tag.

The screws that hold the handle hales together are 5-40, the others are listed as Screw or Screw Special.
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