Pentax 645 film load question

[jeckyll]

Hi folks,

I searched but did not find the answer.

Having just finished my first roll through the 645 I only got 11 frames. I realize I wound the leader too far, my question is, how far do I wind it?

I read the instructions (downloaded the PDF) and they refer to not winding past the red arrow on the leader. Well, the TMAX 100 I have doesn't seem to have a red arrow. So I'm a bit stumped (and don't want to waste more 120 film in the future).

Any help would be appreciated

Thanks

Bjorn

 

[epig]

Usually the black arrow on the paper backing is lined up with an arrow found on the clip that holds the spool in the film magazine.

 

[jeckyll]

Thanks for the comment. I ended up re-winding the backing from the roll I shot and did some test to find out how far to wind it up. If I go to the arrow, I lose some film. So I'm starting a bit before.

Looks like a combination of user error and a camera that perhaps winds a touch more of the leader than it should

 

[dickie vaara]

P645 film wind

I have the same camera, but find it winds perfectly each and every time. NOt sure what glitch yours has. I really think you may have purchased a roll of film that was cut short for some reason.
From insertion of the film leader to the red or black arrow is not very far, and I see no reason why you would be jipped out of four frames.
Make sure you have fresh batteries in the auto-winder...

Richard Vaara
Everett, WA

 

[jeckyll]

Hi Richard,

Thanks for your response. I really think it was 99.9% user error. I'm on the 2nd roll now and I'm confident that it'll be fine. Once I'll develop it I'll post up just to provide a final follow up

Yours

Bjorn