Graflex.org

[Phillip P. Dimor]

I recently noticed that my 4x5 Pacemaker Speed's focal plane shutter was very 'rough'. It did not wind smoothly and would 'lock up'. After investigating things, I realized with the help of Bert Saunders that I was missing a spring that pulls the escapement assembly 'slider' down! In the past I have cleaned, lubed and restored the shutter and remember it being very smooth and definitely having two springs, one for the governor and one for the escapement.

This spring is apparently tiny and strong. Unfortunately, I am having a ridiculously difficult time locating a similar spring without resorting to a small run of custom springs being made. My other options are cannibalizing a spring from another camera, vcr, etc. Or I could find a spring and cut it, possibly reforming a hook or loop end.

The springs I do have are not strong enough or two long. Does anyone know of a source aside from Fred Lustig that would stock a similar spring? I'd rather not purchase a parts graphic as I am relatively poor.

I've checked Mcmaster-Carr and smallparts among others.. Any pointers? Tips?

[Phillip P. Dimor]

Well, if the springs dimensions are 3/32" OD (.09375" or 2.38125mm),
and 3/8" long (free length? .375" or 9.525mm) then Lee Springs make several that may work. Smallparts.com also carries one spring that may work. Can anyone confirm the dimensions of this spring?

[glennfromwy]

I may have the proper sping. email me directly at:

edit: email removed by the poster. Spring is ready to mail.
_________________
Glenn

"Wyoming - Where everybody is somebody else's weirdo"

[glennfromwy]

I rounded up this spring from my parts menagerie and notified this gentleman I would send it for 5 bucks. Recieved, acknowledged and grateful. No money. I'll be very hesitant to do that again. For anyone.
_________________
Glenn

"Wyoming - Where everybody is somebody else's weirdo"