Silly question about setting up the Saunders LPL 4500II

naeroscatu · Dec 6, 2008

Folks, I just bought this enlarger but the base plate is detached from the column and the screws are missing. I went to Home Depot twice already and was not able to find the right thread. I tried metric M8 0.70 and American standard 5/ 16 and which are the correct diameter but not the thread. Any one happen to know what screws do I need to buy. thanks in advance

Nicholas Lindan · Dec 7, 2008

I confess that I have no knowledge of this enlarger.

But...

It is, TTBOMK, Japanese and therefore is almost certainly metric.

M8 screws come in a fine (M8 x 1.0 mm) and a coarse (M8 x 1.25) thread, I am not aware of M8 0.70.

Conjecture would be the enlarger uses the fine thread and Home Depot stocks coarse thread or
vice-versa.

I've never used them, but these folks seem like they might be willing to sell you only a few bolts Dead Link Removed or http://www.boltdepot.com/product.aspx?cc=20&cs=77&cm=21&cd=1306. If you have a store-front machine tool supply
outfit in town you might try them.

pelerin · Dec 7, 2008

naeroscatu said:
Folks, I just bought this enlarger but the base plate is detached from the column and the screws are missing. I went to Home Depot twice already and was not able to find the right thread. I tried metric M8 0.70 and American standard 5/ 16 and which are the correct diameter but not the thread. Any one happen to know what screws do I need to buy. thanks in advance

Hi,
Did you buy it new or second hand? If it was new (at least in the US) the bolts come packed in a small plastic bag along with an Allen key to install them. This bag is usually attached to the column with tape but sometimes is to be found floating around in the column packaging. I will see if I can find a spare to measure tomorrow.
Celac

bdial · Dec 7, 2008

Try contacting KHB Photografix; http://www.khbphotografix.com/
They are even in the same Provence as you, they sell and service LPL enlargers in Canada. I'm sure they could either sell you the bolts or give you the accurate specs.
Buying the bolts from them would likely cost a bit more than Home Depot, but you'd have no more worries about finding the right stuff.
I've found them to be very friendly and responsive to inquiries, even from this side of the border.

ann · Dec 7, 2008

call their customer service department i bet they could help you.

Erik L · Dec 7, 2008

If you have a Tru Value or Ace Hardware store near you give them a shot. For small stores they seem to have everything I am looking for compared to the big home centers. They usually have a section where you can buy single screws or nuts and other stuff you never thought you would need in about every size and thread pitch from metric to standard to fine, coarse and acme threads and from hardened steel, stainless steel to chrome and brass. It's like a candy store for restoring and finding parts you need.
good luck
Erik

naeroscatu · Dec 8, 2008

Thank very much for your suggestions. I bought the enlarger second hand but in like new condition. Only the screws are missing but now I got a better understanding of what is available so I will continue to look for the right stuff.

Jon Shiu · Dec 8, 2008

Hi, looks like the M8 x1.25 bolts would be correct (although mine is a 4550XLG enlarger.)

Jon

naeroscatu · Dec 8, 2008

Hi, looks like the M8 x1.25 bolts would be correct (although mine is a 4550XLG enlarger.)
Jon

Many thanks Jon, this should be correct. I don't think models would differ in the way the column is attached to the base-plate. I'm running back to the hardware store. cheers

thedarkroomstudios · Dec 8, 2008

It's a beautiful enlarger (wish I had more) - get it screwed and then have fun printing

naeroscatu · Dec 10, 2008

Try contacting KHB Photografix; http://www.khbphotografix.com/
They are even in the same Provence as you, they sell and service LPL enlargers in Canada. I'm sure they could either sell you the bolts or give you the accurate specs.
Buying the bolts from them would likely cost a bit more than Home Depot, but you'd have no more worries about finding the right stuff.
I've found them to be very friendly and responsive to inquiries, even from this side of the border.

Bdial your recommendation was spot on, KHB Photografix answered my email in minutes hence they are located 10 min drive from where I work so I will p/up my screws today. Perhaps I will have a look at enlarger lenses as well, they have a list of new and used. Thank you again for the good advice.

Silly question about setting up the Saunders LPL 4500II

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