Graflex.org

[kderickson]

I have a Compact that features the capping shutter which is a second curtain that operates during exposure. Does anyone have a repair manual for an early Graflex that features the capping shutter?

[45PSS]

I know of no repair manual for Graflex SLR cameras. Member bertsaunders use to do repairs and still provides his service information upon request. I have rewritten the info to read more like a tech/repair manual. Look up bert in the member list or one of his posts to get his email info or leave me your email address in a private message to get my version.

If I had the camera in my hands I could figure out what is wrong.

The oldest cameras are assembled using hand made screws. Hand made screws are inconsistent in size therefore when disassembling an old camera it is necessary to note the position the screw came from for reassembly. The body is thin Mahogany and screw holes strip out easily especially on 90+ year old cameras.

The mirror return spring is inside a cap on the left side of the camera. The wind controls are on the right. The curtain aperture and tension setting have no effect on the mirror. The curtain is however dependent on the mirror position. The curtain tensioner is independent of the curtain and mirror. I assume the capping curtain locks out the main curtain when it is not in correct position and may lock out the mirror return if it is not in the closed position.
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[kderickson]

I was able to contact Bert and he sent me some drawings of the capping shutter roller arrangement. I'm not convinced it's going to be repairable.