Crown Graphic lens cleaning

[joeyk49]

Is it possible, for someone with little or no experience, to disassemble the lens elements of Graflex Optar lens? Are there istructions for this online?

Close inspection shows a little dust inside. I really can't tell if there is any fungus. I figured that a good cleaning might relieve these problems. (Although there really isn't that much dust.)

Similarly, the shutter is sluggish at the lower speeds (1/10 and slower); actually pretty sticky. Can I det inthere and clean it myself or any I just asking for trouble?

 

[Dave Parker]

Well although possible, I would recommend sending it to someone to have the CLA done, there are quite a few little springs and gears, that if set wrong could render it useless. If you do decide to go ahead, get your self a good set of jewlers screw drives, and lay some white paper down under your work area so you have a bit of contrast with small parts and work very slowly. I have done CLA's on these and as stated before in other threads, they really not that difficult if you are care not to let springs go sprung and screws roll away.

Good Luck and have fun.

Dave

 

[Nathan Smith]

I guess it comes down to how important this lens is to you.

If it is a spare or back up you can try doing it yourself. Getting them to work better is not too hard with the standard Ronsonol flush, but making them accurate so that you can depend on the shutter speed actually being what it states on the speed ring is harder. Even if you do a full tear-down CLA you really need a shutter speed tester to ensure that it's running at the stated speed.

So, if you want to play with it go right ahead, you can learn a lot. But if you want a dependable shutter I suggest you PM our own (there was a url link here which no longer exists) . She will do the complete clean, lube, adjust, and calibrate for a very reasonable price (under $50 last I checked but don't quote me).

I have worked on more shutters than I can count, but in order to use a light meter, set up my shot with the correct shutter speed and aperture, and count on it working as I expect, I have sent my favorite shutter to Carol and expect to send her more in the near future.

Good luck,
Nathan

 

[John Kasaian]

I'd also recommend Carol Miller for a cla. OTOH if you're determined to do it yourself check out the lens Q&A at www.graflex.org for the skinny of doin' the Ronson flush.

Cheers! (and fer gosh sakes DON'T SMOKE!)

 

[Carol Flutot]

Carol Flutot Miller here, if you want me to CLA your shutter for you,
Or if you try it yourself and run into problems or have a question
just send me an email at flutotscamera@earthlink.net

Take Care!

 

[dr bob]

The Optar Lens is quite easily disassembled. One lens in front and one group in rear unscrew. I removed mine prior to sending the shutter out for CLAW.

 

[joeyk49]

Thanks guys...your input really helps.

As this is the only lens on my only LF camera, I guess I'll take the safe road...

Carol: Let's talk... or, rather, PM...

 

[Dimitri]

Have cleaned and lubricated the shutter in my Graflex. Not a difficult task and the results were very satisfactory. I downloaded instructions and manuals from graflex.org, so I knew what to expect.

As for the lens, I did not try to dissasemble it. I was afraid of not sealing it properly afterwards.