Front Standard Modification etc etc....

[scootermm]

so Ive heard rumors and reference before that there are people who make modifications to the older 8x10, 11x14 etc etc front standards to give them front tilt/swing where the camera originally had a rigid front standard.

I was going to purchase an 8x10 tachihara but that seems to have fallen through from the MPEX front. so I am just wanting to make the best of my empire state and wonder what I could do to gain some front tilt/swing. I find Im using the "compose image, create front tilt/swing with the back standard" feature alot so wondered if anyone knows anyone who makes modifications such as this.

 

[Alex Hawley]

Matt,
If you were considering a Tachihara, why not consider a Shen-Hao? Petty much the same price range and it would be far better than the old Empire.

 

[scootermm]

Yeah I have considered that for sure. The only problem with both the shen hao and the Tachihara is EVERY place Ive found either they dont have them/cant get them/never know when they will ever get them.

The contact I had with badger/viewcamerastore/MPEX all basically left me waiting and waiting for months now. Even the contact with the shenhao factory basically couldnt give me a definative answer I got the Price but when I inquired about how to order and/or when it would be available to be mailed I got nothing.

honestly its a bit frustrating. I know 8x10 is a limited consumer group but Im getting no help from anyone really and Ive made ALOT of phone calls and emails.

 

[Alex Hawley]

Are you watching the auction site? I saw an ANSCO 8x10 go for $500 last week. Good camera in the same general price range.

 

[scootermm]

yeah keeping a sharp eye on it for sure.

although I get distracted by all those 7x17 and 8x20 koronas that keep popping up.....

drool drool...

I sent an email to Richard Ritter (per lee's suggestion) inquiring about doing modifications... Ill be sure to post what he replies with.

 

[Alex Hawley]

although I get distracted by all those 7x17 and 8x20 koronas that keep popping up.....

Those are worth getting distracted with :rolleyes:

 

[scootermm]

would be a dream..... either format.

 

[rbarker]

I wouldn't think it would be too difficult, Matt. But, it might entail some custom manufacturing/machining of the necessary hardware to fit your camera's parts, thus racking up some time. As such, it might not be economical on a hired-out basis. Someone like Mr. Ritter might have bins full of the necessary parts that could be adapted fairly easily, however.

 

[herb]

Front Modifications

Depends on whether you want tilt and swing, or just tilt. If you have any of the ancient ones, Eastman d2, etc, most have rear swing, which will do ok for most landscapes.

If you want a Shen Hao, you can get the larger ones, 5x7 and 8x10 directly from China. Go to the Shen Hao User's group,http://www.phpbbforfree.com/?mforum=shug and they will tell you how. the 4x5s are readily available from Badger and Midwest, last time I looked.

Requires some testicular risk, as you wire the purchase price to the chinese guy who is very pleasant to deal with, (it does take a day or two to answer emails), and he will tell you delivery time-- 2 months, I was told.

 

[scootermm]

Got an email back from Richard Ritter
he said he can do the modification and add front tilt (and repair a skipping rise/fall track) for $225.
Just thought Id pass on the information in case anyone else was curious.

 

[Alex Hawley]

It sounds like a good deal Mat. Maybe 3 hours work plus parts. Not bad at all.

 

[Ian Grant]

Alex's suggestion of an Ansco is a good option. I bought one in late November last year. Described by the seller on Ebay as better than a Deardoff, I'd have to say I totallyagree, full movements on the front standard, and superb build quality.

However there are variations, not all have full front movements, and I've not seen the model I've got listed anywhere. (Has triple extension bellows which includes an additional rail piece to extend the front further.)

Are you watching the auction site? I saw an ANSCO 8x10 go for $500 last week. Good camera in the same general price range.