Saunders/LPL 4550 XLG and 20x24

I have aquired Saunders/LPS 4550 XLG enlarger - the one with the extended column. Up to now I've been using a Saunders 7700 but upgraded to the 4550 as I'll be using it mostly for 4x5. I've been wondering for a while now if a Saunders adjustable 4-bladed easel would work on the 4550 XLG baseboard. The dimensions of that easel is 29 1/4 wide x 25 1/4 deep. I measured the baseboard and the baseboard is deeper than the depth of the easel - 27 3/4" depth front edge of the baseboard to the column by 23.5" wide (the width of the easel would obviously extend out the sides - but will I be able to print 20x24 with that easel on the baseboard given where the center of the image will be projected? I have a 150mm enlarging lens for 4.5 and an 80mm lens for 6x7 film.

Regards,
Mike

Omega D (4x5) is about the same dimensions. The Beseler 16x20 already overhangs by about 3 inches all the way around. I don't think my 20x24 Saunders would fit. At least with the Omega, the tall column is for cropping. I think 20x24 would require, wall mount and drop table.

You should mark the center of the lens as it projects to the baseboard (use the laser from below or make a big X on a negative and project it down). Measure that distance to the column. Many 4 blade easels place the image in the geometric center. So divide the front-back dimension of the easel by two to see if there will be enough room without the easel hitting the column.

I have the same enlarger, but use a Beseler 20x24 easel. No problem with making 18x22 prints ( I like a 1 inch border all around). I’m mostly using a 135, but have used a 150, too.

You can always change the baseboard if you need a wider/deeper space for placement of the easel.

Rodenstock Rodagon-WA 120mm f5.6 WIDE Angle enlarging lens
I use this lens often when I want to go 20X24 or larger. It allows me to go large with a minimum of enlarger column height. I have my Omega D5 wall mounted and the top of the column braced. but still do not like going any higher than I have to for vibrations sake. For my large printing I mostly use a 20X24 vacuum easel. The combination of vacuum easel and the sharp Rodenstock wide angle gives me just what I need. I just went to the big auction site and saw that one Rodenstock 120mm WA went for $147.00. Some folks there are asking much more, but if you wait it out they show up much cheaper at times. JohnW

the crucial dimension is the distance from the lens center to the face of the pillar which is 14inches.

the crucial dimension is the distance from the lens center to the face of the pillar which is 14inches.

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The dimensions ... 29 1/4 wide x 25 1/4 deep.

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So 25.25/2 = 12.625"

I have the same enlarger, but use a Beseler 20x24 easel. No problem with making 18x22 prints

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Seems like agreement.