Kindermann film loader instructions

[Rik]

Hello
I bought a Kindermann stainless steel developping tank for 2 reels, including th e reels and a film loading device. The film loading device is hand held.
Can someone explain to me how to use it, or are there instructions or manuals available on the net?
thanks very much.

Rik
The Netherlands

 

[ann]

use it for a paper weight.

really, most find them a hardship rather than a help.

It is so easy to load the film by hand, just takes some pratice.

Have you been loading film using steel reels?

If so, nothing is different.

If not, just insert the film in the middle , curve the film gently and turn the reel counterclockwise . You want the film to fit between the grooves. With SS reels the film loads from the middle out.

Pick up an outdated roll of film and practice in the light, then close your eyes.

 

[Konical]

Good Evening, Rik,

Ann is correct; the film loading device is more bother than it's worth.

I hope that you were fortunate enough to get Kinderman (or Hewes) reels with your tank. Both have virtually foolproof anchoring devices in their centers which greatly facilitate film loading.

Konical

 

[Rik]

I have the steel Kindermann reels to go with it yes. I tried hand loading but found i need more practice. I think the first trick is to get he first half inch or so of the film on there correctly.

 

[ann]

Rik,
your correct, the "trick' is to get it started properly.

with a bit of practice you will find it isn't so diffiuclt.

 

[Rik]

thanks Ann,
is there any specific trick to get the first bit going correctly? Do you cut the film straight or in some pointed shape?
The reels have a sort of folded metal piece in the centre with a little point sticking out. Does the film go in the metal piece or only on the point?
Sorry if these are silly questions, but I only used plastic reels so far.

 

[ann]

when i first started in photography, steel was the only option so i had to learn to use them or else.........
Because of the time frame the reels didnot have a metal hook and i just learned to put the end of the film into the center of the reel and have continued to do so, even tho i have some reels that have the pins for holding the film in place.

I just have a slight slant to the film and insert it in the middle. IMHO, the trick is to keep a slight curve to the film by holding it at the edges on each side. with some practice you can begin to feel if the film is binding.

Hopefully that makes some sense.

As with most of what we do, it is easier to do, than to write about.

 

[Dan Fullerton]

Rik, I begin with the reel in the palm of my right hand and my thumb over the center of the reel. I extend the film end past my thumb and pull the film back over the center of the reel. When the film end reaches the clip or pin or center post, I attach it or hold it to the center post. At this point the film should be attached and slightly cupped for entry onto the spirals of metal. By running your thumb across the film you can determine if it is loaded and smooth across the center post. Especially with 120 this method will help avoid the "smiles" from the film bending sharply. You will know immediately if the film is out of alignment with the spirals as there is resistance. My left hand is holding the film roll and my thumb and index finger are slightly cupping the film and at the same time guiding the film on the reel by placing those fingers along the edges of the reel. A few minutes practice before loading in the dark will all that is needed. It won't take long for you to find the easiest way for you to get the job done. Dan