beseler 23c II/ 35mm focusing problems

[SteveinAlaska]

I just set up my new (to me!) Beseler 23c II enlarger. It works well on medium format- so I can do my 6x6 & 6x9 negatives from my Bessa & Zeiss cameras.
But, it looks like I can only develop a 4x6 print on the 35mm. It will focus in at that point at about mid-travel and will continue to focus as I move closer to the board. From the mid-travel point upward, it will not focus ( I am trying for 8x10 prints here). Lens in use is an El-Nikkor 1:2.8 50mm. Assumption here at my end is that I need to try a different lens. Which is OK, I get to trouble the camera repair guy and it makes his day!
Would anyone have suggestions on lens or my method of operation....This is a new venture for me on setting up my own darkroom equipment. I am now finishing a B&W film course at the university and have gotten used to using the classroom gear. Thanks for your help.

 

[Vaughn]

Looking at our Beselers, the only thing I can think of is that perhaps the 50mm lens is mounted on some sort of lensboard/spacer that does not allow it to get close enough to the negative to focus. Is that the case? 50mm lenses should be mounted so that the back (top) of the lens is right up against the flat lensboard.

The only other thing would be if you are using a condenser head and do not have the condenser in the correct position for 35mm negs/50mm lenses. But that would affect how even the light is, not focus.

Vaughn

 

[Nicholas Lindan]

Beseler 23c II But, it looks like I can only develop a 4x6 print on the 35mm.

As you have no doubt already found out, you need to "crank the condenser up" - though in actuality it is cranking the negative stage down. There is one knob for focusing and another matching knob for the negative stage/condenser. There is/was a scale for condenser position on the enlarger - moving the lens stage and condenser as far apart as possible is the correct position for 35mm.

 

[BWGirl]

Ok, I had this same sort of problem with my Beseler (same one as yours... same lens, too). First, let's assume you did change the film indicator on the side to let the machine know you are doing 35mm.

If you are still having this problem, you need a recessed lens board. I bought one on eBay, installed my lens into it, and have never had another problem ever! I can make any size enlargement I want now!

 

[RJS]

A recessed lens board - available from Beseler but pricey will work. But beware, the Nikkor, I believe will go in the recessed board but Rodenstock and Schneider lenses are too large. I print 35mm with an 80mm Schneider and it is a much happier arrangement for me. I don't hit my head on the lens and it is fine unless you want to print 16X20. Image quality from a top 80 is excellent.

 

[SteveinAlaska]

Well,I got a copy of the Beseler manual, talked it over with the camera repair guy and while going thru a pot of coffee on a Saturday afternoon, I got it all sorted out. Thanks to everyone for your tips !!