Removing coiled brass springs from a Beseler v-xl enlarger - Can it be done?

[frotog]

Hi,

I'm attempting to ship a Beseler V-XL enlarger. I'd really like to try to get it into three boxes - head, column, baseboard. However, the problem lies in removing the head from the column. Two coiled brass springs assist in moving the head upwards. These springs attach towards the top of the column. Has anyone here attempted to remove these two tape springs so to remove the head from the column?

 

[vpwphoto]

Not those particular springs... but I have messed with them in recoil starters and another enlarger.
They can cut and cut fingers badly so don't take this lightly and do not fail to wear eye protection.
Wish I could help more. I am an instinctive fixer...of all sorts of things. Observe the tension, and what is holding what to where, disassemble take notes and you should be able to do it.

 

[MattKing]

I would contact Beseler.

 

[Arkasha]

I would contact Beseler.

Good luck with that. I wrote them about my 23C II and never got a reply.

 

[wiltw]

I remember uncrating my new VXL about 20 years ago...

• baseboard in one box,
• column with premounted chassis in a second box;
• Universal head in another box;
• color controller for the head in a 4th box.

I would not attempt removal of the chassis from the column. Remove the control arms and knobs from the chassis. Secure the chassis' fully upward position to the column with some gaffer tape. before putting into a suitable box/crate.

 

[Leigh B]

Be EXTREMELY careful working with large springs.

They can cause serious injury, like cutting your fingers off. :eek:

- Leigh