Fuji GS645S film advance

[alexfilm]

I bought a Fuji GS645S, and the mechanics and electronics seemed good – the meter responds, the shutter speeds seem accurate, and the focus patch seems appropriate based on the distance shown on the lens.

My issue kicks in when I load film. Without any resistance, the film advance works fine – I press the shutter release button, and the advance lever makes the takeup spool rotate. Once I load film however, the resistance from the spool of film is enough that the film doesn't advance.

Has anyone run into this problem? Is there a good repair source for this? The local shop does a lot of good work, but doesn't think they'd have what they'd need if there's an issue with gearing.

 

[shutterfinger]

If you put light to medium pressure on the take up spool with your thumb and operate the advance lever does the take up stop turning or turn roughly?
Does film from the supply pull out without excessive pressure?

A google search for Fuji GS645S repair manual turns up a GW690 repair manual at the top of the list and a few links to register to download for the 645 manual.
In the 690 manual the description of film advance shows both gears and friction for the take up and counter.

 

[alexfilm]

If I put a finger on the take up spool, the advance works with some resistance. With a little more pressure, the advance stops.

 

[shutterfinger]

Worn friction movement or slipping clutch. It may be repairable with just a cleaning of the parts. Stripped gear, worn gear teeth, will not turn smoothly with or without pressure, missing gear tooth with result in the take up not turning.

 

[alexfilm]

The advance seems smooth enough with no pressure on it. I'm not sure I'm comfortable breaking this one down, so I may have to see who works on them.

 

[shutterfinger]

I wouldn't feel comfortable doing more than removing the top cover and flushing the advance system with CRC QD Contact Cleaner https://www.homedepot.com/p/CRC-11-oz-QD-Electronic-Cleaner-05103/205021975 with the service manual in hand.

 

[antmar]

Please check if the film you are using is 120 but the film pressure plate is on 220 position. This may produce some extra film tension.

 

[alexfilm]

Please check if the film you are using is 120 but the film pressure plate is on 220 position. This may produce some extra film tension.

I missed this – I'll double check. The setting should be 120.